About Make It in the Emirates
Make It In The Emirates
Key Numbers
AED 53 bn
Were invested by companies in the national economy in 2022 reflecting a 25% increase from 2021
AED 180+ bn
Projected contribution of the industrial sector to the GDP in 2022
263
New industrial production licenses were issued in 2022, a 20% increase over 2021
300
Products were identified in 2022 for local manufacturing through deals made with leading companies in the UAE
AED 300 bn
UAE Manufacturing Value Add targets in 2031
AED 110 bn
Value of potential local procurement agreements made by leading industrial companies during Make it in The Emirates Forum in 2022
USD 13.61 bn
Expected Output of high-tech companies by 2031
AED 174 bn
Value of industrial exports in 2022, according to UNIDO
AED 3.14 bn
Value of financing solutions provided to companies as part of a collaboration with Emirates Development Bank in 2022
175
factories were supported with their technological transformation roadmaps in 2022, bringing the total number to 275 factories
AED 166 m
Value of financing facilities for industrial companies to adopt advanced technology solutions in 2022
AED 1.33 bn
Value of credit solutions in 2022 to enhance the sector’s export potential as part of a collaboration with Etihad Credit Insurance in 2022
AED 3.9 bn
Reduced cost due to exempting industrial production inputs from customs duties
AED 15 bn
Reduced cost due to exempting industrial production inputs from customs duties
AED 3.1 bn
Initial value of 19 investment letters of intent signed in 2022
47
Products to be locally manufactured underwent a feasibility study to measure compatibility with MoIAT’s strategic sectors in 2022
AED 750 m
Will be invested by companies in industry 4.0
1,987
UAE nationals employed in the private sector in 2022 through National ICV program
Benefits of Investing in UAE
The UAE offers an attractive value proposition with a range of competitive advantages as well as the ease of doing business for investors and foreign companies. The UAE is also a reliable supplier of energy and raw materials, has a best-in-class ICT infrastructure, is strategically located with world class logistics infrastructure and advanced technology capabilities.
Attractive business environment
The UAE is ranked highly in the ease of doing business and has developed foreign direct investment policies to allow foreigners to own 100% of their companies.
World-class communications and IT infrastructure
The UAE is highly ranked in the e-government services indices with an integrated communications and IT infrastructure
A global hub for trade flow and logistics
The UAE offers unrivalled connectivity to the business world, with 80 percent of the world’s population within an eight-hour flight
Ideal country to live and invest
The UAE provides a high quality of life, embraces global cultures and offers Golden Visa opportunities for investors.
UAE Rankings
The Scientific and Advanced Technology business ecosystem in the UAE offers a variety of opportunities for investors, scientists, entrepreneurs and talent. Furthermore, residents of the UAE enjoy a high quality of life. The UAE also offers its residents a world-class education and healthcare system; state-of-the-art infrastructure; a conducive business environment; a high sense of security and safety; a variety of leisure and entertainment options; and places of worship for different religious communities.
The Seven Emirates
The United Arab Emirates consists of seven independent Emirates:Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras al Khaimah. Each of the seven emirates have a unique value proposition.
Abu Dhabi
- Abu Dhabi city is the capital of the UAE
Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates, occupying 84 per cent of the national landmass territory. It has 200 islands and a coastline stretching 700km. Its total area is 67,340 sq. km. - Abu Dhabi offers world-class transportation and logistics infrastructure
Khalifa Port, the Emirate’s flagship port, is the first in the Gulf region to be semi-automated and one of the most technologically advanced facilities in the world. - Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of the nation's ambitious innovation strategy
Home to Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, the world's first AI university, and Hub71, a global tech ecosystem with a full suite of support for startups and companies including office space and residences.
Ajman
- Ajman lies on the coast of the Arabian Gulf in the northern part of the UAE
It is 16km long and lies between the emirates of Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain - Ajman has witnessed rapid economic growth over the past five years
Manufacturing sector contributes 35% of GDP
Dubai
- Dubai is the second largest emirate
Dubai is a global leader in international trade, providing businesses with a friendly export-import environment, supported by regional and international trade agreements and efficient logistics services. - Dubai is at the forefront of the nation's ambitious innovation strategy
Home to Mohamed Bin Rashid Space Center and Silicon Oasis, an integrated technology park that fosters technology and entrepreneurship. - Resilient, diverse and dynamic economy
No.4 in GDP per capita, No.1 in Employment Growth and No.1 in Gross Domestic Savings (%)
Fujairah
- Fujairah is the only emirate that is located completely on the eastern coast of the UAE
The shores of Fujairah extend along the Gulf of Oman for about 70km. - Fujairah's economy is based on fishing and agriculture
Other local industries present in Fujairah include mining and stone crushing - Fujairah operates a multipurpose port
It offers access to major shipping routes of the world and is home to the world's largest livestock shipping companies.
Ras Al Khaimah
- Ras Al Khaimah is the fourth-largest emirate
Ras Al Khaimah is located near the northernmost point of the United Arab Emirates and shares its boundaries with the emirates of Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Sharjah. - Ras Al Khaimah has been pursuing a strong policy of economic diversification
Home to Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, RAKEZ - Ras Al Khaimah is an up-and-coming tourism hub
The emirate’s tourism infrastructure has established Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination for leisure and business travel, creating sustainable investment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Sharjah
- Sharjah is perfectly placed between the northern Emirates and the nation’s capital of Abu Dhabi
Downtown Sharjah is a 14-minute drive from Sharjah International Airport and 20-minutes from Dubai, the trade and commerce hub of the UAE. - Sharjah has specialized industrial free zones
With more than 33 industrial zones and 6 free zones - Environment & Renewable Energy
Adaptive environmental protection legislation and ground-breaking projects such as Sharjah Sustainable City
Umm Al Quwain
- Umm Al Quwain is situated between Sharjah to the southwest and Ras Al Khaimah to the northeast.
The emirate has rich coastal mangroves on the coast of the Arabian Gulf and many islands to the east of the mainland
84%
Occupying of UAE's land
52%
Chemical sector contribution in GDP
77%
Petrochemicals contribution in GDP
200
No. of natural islands
19%
Manufacturing contribution in GDP
+9K
Companies, investors and entrepreneurs
1st
Textile industry is first estimated value
1st
in region in Global Financial Centres 2021
3rd
Globally for FDI -Attractiveness 2021
5th
Important international shipping hub
1st
World’s busiest airport
#3
In top 3 oil storage hubs globally
2nd
World’s largest bunkering zone
77%
Hajar mountains range of Fujairah
2nd
For crude oil storage
100%
Foreign ownership
30%
Manufacturing contribution in GDP
2
Strategic ports on the Arabian Gulf
+19
industrial areas in Sharjah
+30
Years industrial supply chain
#1
Least populous Emirate
#1
Industrial activity is food packaging
Our Focus Sectors
Food beverage and agricultural technology
UAE is becoming a major hub for F&B trade in the MENA region. The food and beverage (F&B) industry is one of the fastest growing and most competitive sectors in the UAE.
Pharmaceuticals Sector
The UAE is focused on developing local manufacturers of pharmaceutical products as well as attracting international pharmaceutical companies to the country to achieve self sufficiency and build knowledge and expertise.
Electrical equipment and electronics Sector
Due to its strategic location,Dubai in particular, has been an important supplier of electronic products to the Middle East, Africa and CIS countries.
Advanced manufacturing Sector
The UAE’s pursuit of its vision to become a leading and advanced nation is reflected in its policies and market reforms in this area.
Heavy industries Sector
The UAE heavy industry is growing rapidly and plays an increasingly major role in contributing to the nation's GDP.
Petrochemicals and chemical Sector
The petrochemicals and chemical products industry has contributed to the diversification of UAE economy and has significant export opportunities.
Rubber and plastics Sector
UAE rubber and plastics industry has made worldwide leaps in recent years, allowing it to access more than 60 global markets spanning six continents.
Machinery and equipment Sector
The United Arab Emirates is focused on growing the manufacture of machinery and equipment, considering it a sector of vital importance
Hydrogen Sector
UAE is among the leading countries with potential of developing hydrogen energy sector further, building on the extensive experience and expertise in the oil & gas and renewable energy sectors.
Medical Technology Sector
The UAE is focused on expanding its healthcare system, adopting innovative new technologies, and forging partnerships with leading hospitals and medical technology companies.
Space Technology Sector
The UAE is seeking opportunities to explore celestial bodies, develop satellite communication technologies and deploy the latest space technologies in terrestrial applications.
Incentives for Investors
Ease of Doing Business
Discover competitive programs & incentives for easy business setup and growth
Utilities & Infrastructure
Discover competitive facilities on infrastructure & utilities
Financing
Discover competitive financial opportunities
Talents
Discover competitive schemes for attracting & retaining talents
Access to market
Discover competitive programs to facilitate access to markets
Technology
Discover innovation platforms to support transformation towards industry 4.0
Industrial Licensing Journey
The initial approval license, last part of STEP 1, and the industrial production licenses, part of STEP 3, are both completed online at the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, MoIAT.
The Initial Approval starts with the Departments of Economic Development (DED) and can be completed online across the emirates.
Special approvals from the Civil Defense, Environmental Permits, etc., depending on activity, require a physical presence.
- Issuance of lease contract, civil defense, environmental permit, chamber membership, and memo of association
- Other federal/local approvals based on activity
License issuance can be completed online across the emirates, with the exception of Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain.
The Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratization establishment card, can be initiated online while the card printing and payment requires a physical presence.
Get Work Permits & Visa Process from Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratization
Success stories
EDGE Group Testimonial
Aligned to the main objectives of ‘Operation 300bn’ set out by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, EDGE is developing a defense industrial base in the UAE to generate in-country value, develop sovereign capabilities and position the UAE as a serious global player within the advanced technology industry. We are exporting made in the UAE products globally to contribute to the nation’s GDP.As part of our Industry 4.0 roadmap, we continue to lead the development of local and international talent to play our part in driving the UAE to become a world-leading hub of future technologies in full support of the national Value Added program
Gracia Group Testimonial
The (Make it in the Emirates) campaign illustrates the commitment of the UAE to growing the industrial sector by leading the agricultural sector and transforming productive farms into industrial production such as: greenhouses, process food, technology, etc. Governmental support is always the key to the success of any Emirati business
G42 Healthcare Testimonial
The UAE is a young, agile nation with a dynamic landscape perfect forAI-powered start-ups, SMEs, and MNCs. Its favorable taxation framework, forward-thinking leadership and ease of doing business help businesses thrive. In alignment with its Centennial 2071 plan, the nation is creating a roadmap to be an early adopter of AI in five key sectors – healthcare, energy, logistics and transport, tourism and hospitality, and cyber security. We at G42 Healthcare are committed to leveraging this growing ecosystem with transformative partnerships and solutions, helping the nation transition from sick care to heath care
Electrical Equipment and Electronics Success Story
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) is spearheading the UAE’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub for Industry 4.0, leveraging advanced technologies to create future-proof industries, including the manufacture of electrical equipment and electronics. With the focus on sustainability and building energy and water-efficient factories, we are fully supportive of these initiatives and are proud to partner with MoIAT to make the UAE the home of the factories of the future.
Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) Testimonial
Our cooperation with the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology enables EGA to work with others to achieve our bold aspirations for the future, both for our company and our nation. In 2021, we joined the In-County Value program, a step forward in growing our economic contribution in the UAE. EGA already accounts for 1.4 per cent of the economy, and by further localizing procurement we will grow that further and help achieve the goals of Operation 300bn
Emirates Calcium Carbonate Factory Group Testimonial
Despite the challenges facing global economies, the UAE’s agile government has emerged wiser, stronger and more proactive in providing a platform for knowledge-based, sustainable and innovation-focused businesses of diverse sizes and backgrounds, delivering a transparent and forward-thinking business ecosystem
Al Gharbia Pipe Company Success Story
Al Gharbia Pipe Company was established in 2015 and started production in 2019. By the end of 2021, they had expanded their workforce to 190, effectively serving local industry and beyond. The ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign was the driving force that enabled Al Gharbia to expand their operation, leverage advanced technologies, and prioritize operational excellence in manufacturing globally reputed products. The resulting cost optimization and value chain enabled them to compete with importers to the UAE. Just two years after launching commercial production, they were awarded all ADNOC steel pipe orders, from simple drilling casing and onshore and offshore sour pipelines, meeting some of the most stringent requirements in the world.
MASDAR Success Story
Masdar is supporting the UAE’s leading position as an early mover in hydrogen through its focus on green hydrogen produced from renewable energy. Leveraging the UAE’s natural advantages, like world-leading solar resources, Masdar is playing a key role in developing green hydrogen solutions - from sustainable aviation fuel to green hydrogen hubs – in line with the objectives of both Operation 300bn and “Make it in the Emirates
AstraGene Testimonial
MoIAT helped us in a big way at the beginning stages of our company. They introduced us to Emirates Development Bank and helped us secure an infrastructure loan as well as working capital which helped us to enhance our production. We were supported by DHA and exhibited at their stand as part of the “Made in Dubai” initiative. ‘Make it in the Emirates’ is an admirable program from the UAE Government. Entrepreneurs in the UAE have a number of unique advantages. The UAE is a stable, peaceful, tolerant, and multiracial country. It is well connected by air and sea (for export and import). There is a great transparency of governance with easy access to government officials. We have an excellent infrastructure and a number of government programs to enhance investment. The most important is the great vision of the country’s leaders with supportive government leaders and officials wanting UAE to be the best country to live in the world.
Space Technology Success Story
Our startup success could not have been possible without the support from the UAE Space Agency, Mohammed Bin Rashed Space Agency, and Khalifa University. It is also a recognition of the achievements of Emirati innovators and a testimony to our advanced technology and its great potential in servicing the UAE and supporting the local innovation ecosystem.We are also thankful to Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund, Abu Dhabi Ports and Abu Dhabi Municipality for providing great guidance.
HOTPACK Success Story
Hotpack Packaging Industries, established in 1995, has become the largest manufacturer of disposable food packaging products in the region and credits this impressive growth to the technological and manufacturing space across the UAE, excellent infrastructure, low tax, global connectivity, and the support from the UAE Government. Starting with a workforce of three, they now have 12 manufacturing divisions, 3500+ products, 3300+ employees, 42 retail outlets, and 27 branches worldwide. Their 3 million square foot manufacturing area, with state-of-the-art equipment and 100,000+ pallet locations serving logistics and warehousing, supports exports to over 100+ countries. In addition, all its factories have achieved the prestigious double Grade A (AA) certification from the International Gold standard, BRCGS
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