UAE Industrial Sector Surges with 59% Growth, Paving Way for $300 Billion Economy
The United Arab Emirates’ industrial sector experienced a remarkable surge in 2025, contributing 210 billion dirhams to the national economy – a 59% increase compared to 2020 – as the nation accelerates its diversification efforts and solidifies its position as a global industrial hub. This growth is fueled by strategic initiatives like the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, known as the “300 Billion Project,” and the “Made in the Emirates” program, which are collectively driving localization, technological transformation, and national talent development.
A National Strategy Taking Shape
The achievements of the past year represent a critical stage in consolidating and empowering the industrial sector, according to a senior official. The focus has been on supporting the localization of supply chains, accelerating technological adoption, and fostering a skilled national workforce. These efforts are designed to improve the overall business environment through increased automation and streamlined processes.
Economic Impact and Export Growth
The UAE’s commitment to industrial growth is clearly reflected in the economic data. Industrial exports exceeded 197 billion dirhams in 2025, representing a substantial 68% increase over 2020 figures. Notably, exports of medium and high-technology products reached 62 billion dirhams, a 35% jump year-over-year, signaling a shift towards higher-value industries.
National spending on the industrial sector also saw significant growth, exceeding 110 billion dirhams – a 244% increase over the past five years. Financing for industrial companies reached 12.73 billion dirhams, a 200% increase compared to 2023, demonstrating increased investor confidence and access to capital.
“Made in the Emirates” Drives Localization and Job Creation
The “Made in the Emirates” initiative has emerged as a cornerstone of the UAE’s industrial strategy. The fourth session of the platform proved to be a pivotal moment, attracting major industrial companies and fostering the localization of strategic products. This has resulted in the creation of a competitive knowledge-based industrial base, further cementing the UAE’s role as a key player in the future of global manufacturing.
The platform facilitated the announcement of purchasing opportunities totaling 168 billion dirhams, with potential for localizing the manufacturing of 4,800 products and generating new projects worth over 11 billion dirhams. More than 187 memorandums of understanding and agreements were signed, focusing on supply chain localization, technology transfer, and citizen employment. Purchase agreements alone totaled 7.8 billion dirhams.
The initiative’s impact extends to job creation, with over 22,000 employment opportunities created for Emirati talent by the end of 2024. The “Manufacturers” job fair, held as part of the “Made in the Emirates” platform, directly led to 2,500 Emirati citizens securing employment. Over 3,000 job seekers attended, participating in more than 10,000 interviews, many leveraging artificial intelligence.
Streamlining Services and Attracting Investment
Recognizing the importance of a business-friendly environment, the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology has undertaken significant efforts to reduce bureaucracy and improve customer service. In 2025, 14 services and 50 operational processes were re-engineered to enhance the investor experience and support supply chain sustainability.
The launch of the ZeroX platform, an interactive platform for measuring the impact of procedural simplification, underscores this commitment. The Ministry also updated 12 national conformity badges and marks, enhancing the competitiveness of Emirati products in both domestic and international markets. A national survey confirmed the UAE’s adherence to best-in-class international standards, bolstering consumer confidence and strengthening the national economy.
Recognizing Excellence and Fostering Innovation
The “Made in the Emirates” awards program celebrated achievements across several key areas, including national content, sustainability, and future-focused factory design. This year’s awards introduced a new category recognizing Emirati Crafts, highlighting the importance of traditional industries alongside cutting-edge technology. The competition attracted over 200 nominations from 30 countries, with 57% originating from within the UAE and 43% from international applicants.
Funding the Future of Industry
To further support the growth and expansion of the industrial sector, significant financial resources have been allocated. Financing solutions, led by the Emirates Development Bank and other national banks, totaled 40 billion dirhams. The Emirates Growth Fund, with a value of one billion dirhams, will specifically support small and medium-sized industrial companies in strategic sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, food security, and advanced technology.
The UAE’s industrial sector is rapidly evolving, driven by strategic investments, innovative initiatives, and a commitment to fostering a sustainable and diversified economy. As the nation progresses towards its ambitious goal of a 300 billion dirham industrial contribution to GDP by 2031, it is poised to become a leading global center for the industries of the future.
