The UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology has announced the agenda and official theme for the highly anticipated fourth edition of “Make it in the Emirates,” set to take place from May 19 to 22, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). With the theme “Accelerating Advanced Industries,” the event will serve as a catalyst for industrial growth, innovation, and investment, both locally and internationally.
During a press conference held at Emirates Towers in Dubai, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber highlighted the significance of the event, underscoring its alignment with the UAE’s ambitious industrial strategy and its commitment to economic diversification.
A Platform for Innovation and Growth
The event will explore crucial topics over four days, including smart industrial transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, national content development, entrepreneurship, and major procurement deals. Notably, it will feature a dedicated pavilion celebrating Emirati craftsmanship and heritage industries.
Dr. Al Jaber emphasized that the UAE’s success stems from the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the strategic foresight of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He noted that “Make it in the Emirates” is central to advancing local industry, creating jobs, and building a resilient, knowledge-based economy.
Impressive Industrial Achievements
Since the launch of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology in 2021, the UAE has seen remarkable growth in its industrial sector. Industrial exports soared to AED 197 billion in 2024, a 68% rise from 2020. Local spending through the national content program reached AED 347 billion. These achievements, Al Jaber stressed, are not mere numbers—they reflect real factories, real jobs, and a stronger national economy.
A Record-Breaking Edition
The 2025 edition promises to be the largest to date, with over 671 exhibitors—14 times more than last year—and an expanded exhibition area of 68,000 square meters. Organizers expect over 30,000 visitors, including industry leaders, innovators, and investors. The event will showcase opportunities across 12 critical sectors, unveil new financing solutions, and announce groundbreaking projects and procurement contracts.
Empowering Talent and Celebrating Heritage
A key highlight will be the “Manufacturers” job fair, offering over 1,200 job opportunities with 100 companies. The event also places a spotlight on women in industry, youth empowerment, and the role of national talent in driving industrial progress. For the first time, the Ministry of Culture will host a pavilion featuring 40 live demonstrations of traditional Emirati crafts.
Driving Global Partnerships
Officials emphasized that “Make it in the Emirates” offers unparalleled opportunities for both local and international investors to forge industrial and technological partnerships, supported by the UAE’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and competitive business environment.
Special Highlights and Awards
The event will introduce several new initiatives, including a startup competition focused on industrial AI innovations. Additionally, prestigious awards such as the “Make it in the Emirates Awards” and “National Content Day Awards” will recognize excellence in manufacturing, innovation, and heritage preservation.
Looking to the Future
With its ambitious agenda, the fourth edition will not only highlight the UAE’s industrial achievements but also set the stage for the next phase of growth. Key discussions will center around global supply chain resilience, smart manufacturing, AI integration, and sustainable industrial practices.
A National Invitation to Innovate
As Dr. Al Jaber concluded, “Make it in the Emirates” is more than an event—it’s a movement driving the UAE’s industrial renaissance. He extended an open invitation to investors and entrepreneurs worldwide to join this journey and be part of the UAE’s dynamic industrial future.
In short, the fourth edition of “Make it in the Emirates” is poised to be a landmark event, cementing the UAE’s position as a regional and global hub for advanced industries, innovation, and sustainable economic development.
