Post by : Badri Ariffin

In preparation for the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026 (MIITE), the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) convened the Industrial Resilience and Supply Chain Continuity Forum in Abu Dhabi.

Scheduled for May 4 to 7, 2026, at the ADNEC Centre, this landmark industrial event is hosted by MoIAT and organized by ADNEC Group, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and ADNOC.

Emphasis on Industrial Enhancement

The forum united ministers, industry experts, and CEOs to address the crucial topics of supply chain stability and industrial resilience. It underscored the UAE’s strategic vision to enhance its industrial capacity and lessen reliance on imports.

Chaired by Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the discussions highlighted that a robust local manufacturing sector is vital for national security. He remarked that nations reliant on imports are at risk during global crises.

Further, he emphasized that achieving self-sufficiency is linked to real production, a skilled workforce, and high-quality local products. The UAE aspires to satisfy essential needs in food, industry, and pharmaceuticals while maintaining openness to global collaborations.

MIITE 2026: The Largest Yet

Officials have confirmed that MIITE 2026 will outshine its predecessors:

• 1,162 companies are expected to participate (61% increase)

• 88,000 sqm of exhibition space (30% growth)

• 60% of participants are SMEs

Hasan Jasem Al Nowais noted that the UAE has doubled its industrial exports, hitting its 2031 targets six years early.

The initiative has identified over 4,800 products for local manufacturing, creating abundant new opportunities for investors and businesses. MIITE will also feature innovative financing programs and policies targeting 12 key sectors.

Focus on Key Issues

The forum tackled significant industry challenges:

• Supply chain disruptions

• Raw material accessibility

• Business financing and liquidity

• Export competitiveness

These discussions also built on insights from the recent Virtual Industrial Council.

Highlighting Culture and Innovation

Mubarak Al Nakhi stressed the importance of cultural elements in economic progress. The Ministry is set to present:

• 50 Emirati crafts

• 500+ local products

• Involvement from 200 artisans

• 23 interactive sessions and activities

The pavilion will also present modern culinary experiences inspired by Emirati culture alongside innovations in technology.

A Strong Industrial Landscape

Since Operation 300Bn was implemented in 2021:

• Industrial exports soared to AED 262 billion in 2025

• High-tech exports reached AED 92 billion

• Over AED 473 billion contributed to the economy from the ICV program

• 36 global trade agreements were signed

These achievements position the UAE favorably against global trade challenges.

What to Anticipate at MIITE 2026

The event will feature:

• Ministerial talks on industrial evolution

• Sessions focusing on AI, sustainability, and automation

• MIITE Awards celebrating industry successes

• Emphasis on women's contributions in the industry

Innovative additions will include:

• Industry Museum

• Startup Hub

• NextGen Hub

• Intelligence Hub

• Quality Hub

The UAE is crafting a resilient industrial identity, actively welcoming global investment while fostering innovation and collaboration at MIITE 2026.

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