ABU DHABI – The UAE has solidified its status as a premier international hub for industrial investment, successfully attracting leading global companies and top talent through innovative initiatives and programs that enhance the national industrial landscape. Key initiatives include the “National Content,” “Technological Transformation” programs, and the “Make in the Emirates” initiative.
Recent statistics reveal impressive growth in the UAE’s industrial sector, contributing AED 205 billion to the GDP by the end of 2023—an increase of 55 percent since 2020. Furthermore, the value of UAE industrial exports surged to AED 187 billion, marking a 61 percent growth over the same period.
In March 2021, the UAE launched the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, aiming to further stimulate industrial growth. This strategy is designed to elevate the sector’s contribution to the GDP to AED 300 billion by 2031, positioning it as a cornerstone of the country’s economic diversification efforts.
Made in UAE
The industrial landscape is marked by significant achievements, especially with aircraft components labeled “Made with Pride in the UAE.” This has established the UAE as a critical manufacturing hub for aerospace parts.
“Investment in advanced manufacturing, especially in aviation, is bolstered by visionary leadership aimed at positioning Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a global industrial powerhouse,” noted a spokesperson from a leading investment company. “This ambition is reflected in Strata Manufacturing’s achievements in aircraft parts production.”
Strata’s data shows that from 2010 to 2024, over 90,000 aircraft structure parts have been produced, with one in ten aircraft utilizing components proudly bearing the “Proudly Made in Strata” label. The company has successfully completed over six thousand shipments of aircraft structure parts since its inception.
Global Center
The country’s industrial sector has undergone significant transformations, particularly in the iron and steel industry, now a cornerstone of economic infrastructure. The UAE ranks among the largest regional and global producers in this field.
According to recent statistics, leading steel manufacturers contribute approximately 11 percent to Abu Dhabi’s industrial output. These organizations are aligned with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology’s ambitious AED 300 billion strategy to accelerate industrial development.
Moreover, these manufacturers have significantly enhanced their export capabilities, expanding their product reach to over 70 markets worldwide, up from just 38 countries three years prior.
Ambitious Plans
The industrial sector has made remarkable strides in developing large-scale projects that attract substantial investments, further boosting its contribution to the nation’s GDP. Ambitious plans are underway to elevate this contribution even further in the coming years.
Factors driving the UAE’s industrial investment success include forward-thinking strategies, advanced infrastructure, and its strategic geographical location as a vital link between East and West, alongside world-class logistics hubs. The UAE’s investments in innovation and technology have fostered an environment conducive to advanced, sustainable industries, while its economic stability and strong public-private partnerships bolstered its competitive edge on the global business landscape.
