Make it in the Emirates 2026 Opens Today to Drive UAE’s Next Industrial Leap

Now underway at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026 brings together government, industry leaders, and manufacturers to accelerate investment, partnerships, and technology-led growth.

Kicking off today and running from May 4 to 7, 2026, Make it in the Emirates 2026 returns as a cornerstone of the UAE’s industrial strategy, convening key stakeholders under the theme “Advanced Industry. Emerging Stronger.” 

As one of the country’s most significant sector gatherings, the forum is set to catalyze tangible outcomes from offtake agreements and investment deals to technology transfer and cross-border partnerships, reinforcing the UAE’s push to build a resilient, innovation-driven industrial base.

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) will present Dubai as a globally connected hub for advanced manufacturing, underpinned by world-class infrastructure, integrated logistics, and seamless access to international markets. 

Dubai enters the forum bolstered by a standout performance, having achieved 6.4% GDP growth in Q4 2025, with total GDP reaching AED937 billion for the full year, underscoring steady economic momentum despite global headwinds. DET’s participation aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which targets more than doubling manufacturing value-added output in the decade up to 2033, while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading destination for industrial investment.

Attendees will gain an understanding of how manufacturers operating in Dubai benefit from connectivity to more than 130 export destinations, supported by Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements and advanced customs facilitation measures that ensure reliable trade flows. At the Dubai Pavilion, DET will bring together key entities including Dubai Industrial City, National Industries Park, Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), Dubai Chambers, Dubai Future Foundation, Food Tech Valley, and other strategic partners.

H.E. Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), the economic development arm of DET, said, “Dubai’s leadership has consistently taken decisive, policy-driven action to safeguard growth and stability. Our manufacturing sector reflects this approach: it is diversified, technologically advanced, and fully integrated into global value chains. Even amid regional pressures, business continuity remains seamless across logistics, trade and industrial operations. Through the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33 we are also strengthening our value proposition for manufacturers by enabling new investments and plant expansions through tailored incentive frameworks. These include support mechanisms designed to enhance cost competitiveness, reduce barriers to entry, and accelerate scale-up for high-impact projects.

Our participation in ‘Make it in the Emirates’ is an opportunity to translate that vision into partnerships and close the deals that will strengthen local manufacturing, drive economic momentum, and further reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading hub for export-led growth.” 

The Dubai Pavilion will serve as a central platform to engage investors, manufacturers, and stakeholders, offering insights into the emirate’s competitive advantages.