The UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has launched Factory Forward, a national platform designed to bring the country’s industrial technology transformation programmes together and speed up adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution tools across factories.
The initiative builds on programmes that have already reached more than 700 factories, including over 620 assessed through the Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI). It aims to help manufacturers, particularly smaller businesses, identify their technology needs and connect with technical experts, technology providers, financing and support programmes.
Factory Forward will also share case studies of factory transformations and practical technology applications. Its public and private sector partners are divided into three groups: technology partners that assess operations and readiness, enablement partners that provide training and advice, and financing partners that support transformation projects.
The platform supports the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology and the Make it in the Emirates programme, which seeks to expand high-value domestic industry and attract advanced manufacturing investment.
The launch comes as digital transformation gains momentum among regional manufacturers. According to Rockwell Automation’s 2025 State of Smart Manufacturing Report, 98% of Middle East manufacturers view digital transformation as essential, while workforce skills remain the main barrier to further progress.
Source: Middle East AI News
