The UAE is set to host the fifth and largest edition of its national industrial platform, Make it in the Emirates (MIITE), from May 4 to 7 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), the event coincides with the launch of a major government package designed to strengthen the country’s industrial sector, including a new AED 1 billion fund.
Quick Facts
- Event runs from May 4-7 at ADNEC Abu Dhabi.
- Announced AED 1 billion national industrial resilience fund.
- Aims to localize production for 5,000 products.
- Over 1,100 exhibitors and 120,000 visitors expected.
Government Backing and a Billion-Dirham Boost
Running under the theme “Emerging Stronger,” MIITE 2026 is launching alongside a set of strategic initiatives approved by the UAE Cabinet. The centerpiece is a new national industrial resilience fund valued at AED 1 billion. This fund is aimed at supporting the localization of vital industries, securing supply chains, and speeding up the adoption of artificial intelligence across production and operations.
The government package also expands the National In-Country Value (ICV) program, making it a mandatory framework for all federal government entities and national companies. This move is intended to direct national spending toward supporting local industries. A new policy will also work to increase the presence of UAE-made products in retail stores and on e-commerce platforms.
A Platform for National Champions and SMEs
This year’s MIITE will feature more than 1,100 exhibitors across 12 industrial sectors, with an expected attendance of over 120,000 visitors, including international investors and industry leaders. The event will introduce new procurement opportunities with the goal of localizing the production of around 5,000 products within the UAE.
Significantly, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) represent 61% of the participants at MIITE 2026, highlighting a national push to broaden the industrial base and empower local companies. The platform serves as a hub for manufacturers, investors, and startups to forge partnerships and secure investments.
AI and Resilience: Charting the UAE’s Industrial Future
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, emphasized the UAE’s strategy to modernize its industrial sector.
“Guided by its leadership’s vision, the UAE continues to advance and modernize its industrial sector, strengthening its contribution to economic growth,” said Dr. Al Jaber. “Artificial intelligence is redefining the competitiveness of the UAE’s industry, confidently driving it toward the future.”
He added that the new government initiatives provide a significant boost to the nation’s industrial development, creating an integrated ecosystem that combines demand stimulation, access to financing, and improved decision-making.
“The fifth edition of the platform underscores the UAE’s strong industrial foundations, presenting a live model of industrial resilience through reliable supply chains, scalable national companies, and local innovations that generate sustainable value,” Dr. Al Jaber stated.
About Make it in the Emirates
Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) is the UAE’s annual national platform for driving industrial growth. Now in its fifth edition, MIITE convenes policymakers, industry leaders, global investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators to forge strategic partnerships, mobilize investment, and accelerate the adoption of advanced manufacturing and AI across priority sectors. Since its inception, the platform has facilitated procurement and offtake agreements worth billions of dirhams. MIITE has driven AED 473Bn+ into the national economy through the In-Country Value (ICV) program, while expanding access to international markets through the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs).
Source: Zawya
