UAE Approves Dh1bn Fund to Boost Industrial Resilience: Sheikh Mohammed

To strengthen Industrial Resilience, the United Arab Emirates has approved a Dh1 billion national fund as part of a broader policy push to localise more than 5,000 critical goods and expand domestic manufacturing capabilities, according to an announcement by Sheikh Mohammed.

The initiative forms part of a package of government decisions aimed at reinforcing supply chains, accelerating the use of artificial intelligence in production, and enhancing the competitiveness of the country’s industrial sector.

Dh1 Billion Fund Targets Supply Chains and Localisation

The newly approved UAE industrial fund, valued at Dh1 billion, is designed to support industrial resilience UAE by strengthening local production ecosystems and reducing reliance on imports. The policy framework focuses on increasing domestic capacity across key sectors while improving supply chain stability.

The government has linked the fund to broader goals of economic diversification, with an emphasis on ensuring the availability of essential goods through local manufacturing. Authorities aim to localise over 5,000 vital products under the initiative, reflecting a shift toward self-sufficiency in strategic industries.

The programme also includes measures to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, in industrial operations. This is expected to improve productivity, optimise processes, and support long-term competitiveness.

UAE Industrial Fund: Mandatory Expansion of National Content Programme

As part of the policy package, the UAE will expand its “National Content Programme” and make it mandatory for all federal government entities and national companies. The programme is intended to prioritise locally produced goods and services in procurement and contracting processes.

By institutionalising the programme, authorities aim to increase demand for domestically manufactured products, thereby supporting local businesses and encouraging further investment in the industrial sector.

The move is expected to enhance the role of local suppliers in government-led projects while reinforcing the integration of domestic manufacturing into the broader economic framework.

Retail and E-Commerce Push for Local Products

The government also announced a new policy to support the presence of locally made products across retail outlets and online platforms. The initiative seeks to improve market access for domestic manufacturers and ensure greater visibility of UAE-produced goods.

Under the plan, retailers and digital marketplaces will play a role in promoting local products, aligning with the government’s objective of increasing the share of domestically manufactured goods in consumer markets.

This approach is intended to create a more robust distribution network for local industries while strengthening the link between production and consumption within the domestic economy.

‘Made in Emirates 2026’ Platform in Focus

Preparations are underway for the launch of the “Made in the Emirates 2026” platform, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi next month. The event is expected to bring together global investors, manufacturers, and industry leaders from multiple countries.

The platform will serve as a key forum for showcasing the UAE’s industrial capabilities and attracting international investment into the sector. It also aims to facilitate partnerships between local and global companies, supporting technology transfer and industrial expansion.

The initiative aligns with the country’s broader strategy to position itself as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation-driven industries.

Policy Supports Long-Term Industrial Strategy

The latest measures form part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its industrial base and diversify its economy beyond traditional sectors. By combining financial support, regulatory changes, and market access initiatives, the government is seeking to create a comprehensive framework for industrial growth.

The emphasis on localisation, supply chain resilience, and technology adoption reflects a strategic response to global economic shifts and supply chain disruptions. The integration of artificial intelligence into industrial processes is also expected to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

According to Sheikh Mohammed UAE policy, the policy package underscores the UAE’s commitment to consolidating its position as a global economic and industrial hub. The combination of targeted funding, mandatory procurement reforms, and international engagement initiatives aims to support sustainable industrial development over the long term.

The announcement comes as governments worldwide intensify efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing and secure supply chains, highlighting the growing importance of industrial policy in national economic strategies.