The atmosphere at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi felt especially busy this week as government officials, investors, entrepreneurs, and manufacturers gathered under one roof for the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026. The large-scale industrial event welcomed more than 1,245 companies this year, turning the Abu Dhabi venue into a showcase of the UAE’s growing ambitions in manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and advanced technology.
Among the key visitors was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who toured the exhibition alongside Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Running until May 7, the exhibition has become one of the UAE’s biggest industrial gatherings, bringing together major companies, government entities, and startups that are helping shape the country’s next economic chapter.
Mohammed bin Rashid, accompanied by Hamdan bin Mohammed and Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed, visits the fifth edition of the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ exhibition at ADNEC Abu Dhabi, held under the theme “Advanced Industry. Emerging Stronger.” The event brings together more than… pic.twitter.com/TbkD6NKwDe
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 6, 2026
A closer look at the UAE’s industrial future
Walking through the exhibition halls, it was clear that the UAE’s industrial sector is no longer only about factories and heavy machinery. This year’s edition placed a strong focus on AI-powered systems, smart manufacturing, robotics, clean energy, and future-ready supply chains.
During the visit, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of industry in supporting the UAE’s long-term economic plans. He described the sector as one of the country’s key pillars for diversification, especially as the UAE continues reducing dependence on oil revenues.
Across the exhibition floor, companies demonstrated how technology is now transforming production lines and logistics. Interactive displays, automated systems, and digital manufacturing solutions drew large crowds throughout the venue.
The event also reflected how quickly the UAE is positioning itself as a regional hub for advanced industries. Over the past few years, the country has steadily expanded investments in innovation, industrial technology, and local production capabilities.
Sheikh Mohammed tours major UAE pavilions
One of the busiest sections inside the exhibition was the lineup of large UAE corporate pavilions, where officials presented projects designed to strengthen the country’s industrial ecosystem.
Sheikh Mohammed visited displays from ADNOC, EDGE Group, International Holding Company, Mubadala, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi, and L’IMAD Holding.
Each pavilion showcased different aspects of the UAE’s industrial transformation. Some focused on defence technology and AI systems, while others highlighted clean energy solutions, advanced manufacturing, and logistics infrastructure.
The EDGE pavilion, in particular, attracted attention for its futuristic defence technologies and smart systems, while ADNOC showcased projects linked to energy innovation and industrial sustainability.
For visitors attending the exhibition, the scale of the displays offered a glimpse into how quickly the country’s industrial ambitions are evolving beyond traditional sectors.
Small businesses are playing a bigger role
While major corporations dominated large sections of the exhibition, smaller businesses and startups also had a strong presence this year.
According to organisers, SMEs make up 61 percent of participants at Make it in the Emirates 2026. That number reflects how the UAE is increasingly supporting local entrepreneurs and emerging manufacturers.
Many smaller companies used the event to introduce locally made products, industrial services, and technology-driven solutions. Several exhibitors also held meetings with investors and procurement teams looking to localise production within the UAE.
One of the major announcements linked to the exhibition is the plan to localise around 5,000 products across different sectors. The goal is to strengthen local manufacturing while reducing reliance on imported goods.
For businesses operating in the UAE, this creates opportunities across industries ranging from food production and healthcare to technology and engineering.
impact on abu dhabi
Events like Make it in the Emirates are becoming more important as the UAE continues building a stronger non-oil economy.
Over the last decade, the country has invested heavily in logistics, renewable energy, advanced technology, and infrastructure. Industrial exhibitions now play a major role in connecting government initiatives with private sector growth.
The event also reflects the UAE’s wider strategy of becoming a global destination for innovation and future industries. It is not only about showcasing products but also about attracting investment, encouraging partnerships, and creating long-term economic opportunities.
For many young Emiratis entering technology and engineering sectors, exhibitions like this also highlight the growing number of career paths opening up inside the country.
UAE pushes ahead with advanced industry goals
At the end of the tour, Sheikh Mohammed praised the progress achieved by UAE industries and expressed confidence in the country’s ability to strengthen its global industrial presence.
He said the UAE is shaping the future through innovation, skilled talent, and ambitious national institutions.
As crowds continue to move through the exhibition halls in Abu Dhabi, Make it in the Emirates 2026 is once again highlighting how the UAE’s industrial story is rapidly changing — from traditional manufacturing to a future built around technology, innovation, and smart production.
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