ABU DHABI, 21st May, 2025 (WAM) -- Omar Al Suwaidi, Under-Secretary of Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), announced that the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum attracted over 58,000 visitors during its first two days—nearly double the number initially expected across the event’s four-day duration.
“We expected 30,000 visitors over the course of the forum, but we’re seeing nearly 30,000 each day,” Al Suwaidi told Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the forum’s third day.
He said the overwhelming turnout reflects growing interest in the national industrial sector and underscores the UAE’s advanced position in the field. “The event is successful by every standard. The turnout is significant, and we anticipated this momentum, particularly given our efforts to attract as many national companies as possible,” he added. A total of 720 companies are participating, all presenting high-quality products, with no symbolic or superficial representation.
Al Suwaidi noted that the platform showcases sophisticated national products, not only in quantity but also in quality and innovation—impressing attendees.
Discussing the forum’s evolution since the launch of the UAE’s Industry and Advanced Technology Strategy, he said the number of nationally produced items has grown significantly. “We started a few years ago with a few hundred national products. Today, there are 4,800, of which 3,800 are showcased at Make it in the Emirates and are open for investment.”
He also highlighted the broad financing solutions now available to support the growing industrial momentum, including partnerships with seven national banks offering AED40 billion in funding over five years.
“This financial partnership directly empowers investors and supports their expansion in the national industrial sector,” he said.
On workforce development, Al Suwaidi pointed to the launch of the “Manufacturers” recruitment fair yesterday, which offers 1,200 jobs through 100 participating companies. “This reflects the UAE’s commitment to integrating its youth into the promising industrial sector.”
He emphasised that the UAE’s industrial drive is focused on high-value products and advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, a trend clearly reflected in the companies and innovations on display at the forum.
“The exhibition offers real investment opportunities,” he said, noting that every visitor has access to explore 3,800 national products displayed at the forum. He added that specialised sessions are being held to explain investment opportunities and provide detailed insights into the available products, with the ministry and its partners committed to simplifying this journey for investors.
Al Suwaidi also announced the launch of new initiatives to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including the AED1 billion Emirates Growth Fund in partnership with Emirates Development Bank. This fund is designed to support SMEs, which he described as a key pillar of the country’s industrial landscape.