The event embodies a comprehensive ecosystem aimed at driving sustainable, long-term growth.
Make it in the Emirates 2026 has become a key platform driving the UAE’s vision of a resilient, diversified, and future-ready economy.
This year’s edition spans a broad range of sectors, showcasing the country’s integrated approach to industrial development. It brings together manufacturing, services, healthcare, and academia within a cohesive ecosystem designed to support sustained long-term growth.
It highlights the UAE’s commitment to boosting local production while enhancing global competitiveness.
At the same time, it underscores the importance of innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability in driving the next phase of industrial growth. More than just an exhibition, the platform represents a strategic move toward cross-sector collaboration to strengthen the nation’s economic future.
A key focus this year is the expansion of local manufacturing capabilities. According to Ducab, participation aligns with the UAE’s long-term industrial vision. Gert Hoefman, Interim Group CEO, noted that the company’s approach extends beyond manufacturing to building an integrated industrial ecosystem. With more than 40 years in the market, Ducab has worked on localising supply chains and investing in advanced infrastructure, including copper rod and aluminium facilities, reinforcing the global “Made in the UAE” brand.
Driving innovation in energy and infrastructure
Innovation continues to be a core pillar of Ducab’s contribution. The company is developing high-voltage fibre optic cables—among the first in the GCC—which combine power transmission with real-time monitoring capabilities. These systems improve grid performance by tracking temperature, strain, and operational efficiency. In parallel, Ducab is aligning with fast-growing sectors such as data centres and industrial digitalisation, while also achieving a regional milestone in extra high voltage cable system testing at 400kV in collaboration with international partners. These advancements highlight how industrial players are supporting the UAE’s sustainability goals while meeting the demands of an increasingly digital economy.
Expanding global competitiveness
The broader manufacturing ecosystem, supported by initiatives such as Make it in the Emirates, has significantly enhanced the UAE’s global competitiveness. Ducab’s export reach across 75 markets reflects the strength of local partnerships in sourcing, logistics, and production. As the UAE continues to strengthen its industrial base, companies are increasingly positioned to compete internationally while raising standards in innovation and sustainability.
Healthcare as an industrial enabler
Healthcare also plays a vital role in shaping the industrial landscape. Response Plus Holding (RPM) illustrates how the sector is evolving to support operational continuity across industries. Dr. Rohil Raghavan, CEO of Response Plus Holding (RPM), noted that participation in the event reflects the UAE’s shift toward a competitive, innovation-led healthcare ecosystem supported by strong policy direction and long-term investment.
Enhancing workforce safety and resilience
He explained that healthcare is no longer just a standalone service but a strategic driver of industrial productivity. RPM plays an important role across sectors such as energy, aviation, manufacturing, construction, and education by delivering not only emergency response but also preventive care and workforce readiness. Its rapid deployment capabilities within industrial zones ensure immediate medical support, helping reduce downtime and improve overall operational efficiency.
Technology transforming healthcare delivery
Dr. Raghavan also highlighted the increasing role of technology in modern healthcare delivery. Investments in artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and real-time fleet tracking are enhancing response times and improving field decision-making. Furthermore, the development of the UAE’s first long-range air ambulance represents a major milestone in advanced medical evacuation, reinforcing the country’s leadership in pre-hospital care. These initiatives demonstrate how healthcare innovation is becoming central to industrial resilience and sustainable growth.
Academia powering innovation and talent
Academia is also playing a crucial role in shaping the UAE’s industrial future. Abu Dhabi University is using the platform to bridge academic research with real-world application. Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor, emphasized the university’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy through its innovation arm, ADU Innovate.
From research to real-world solutions
At this year’s event, the university is presenting several advanced projects developed by students and faculty. These include Q1RAM, a quantum memory system aimed at improving computing efficiency; AMAL X, an AI-powered exoskeleton designed for stroke rehabilitation; and a solar-powered atmospheric water harvesting system addressing water scarcity in arid regions. Other innovations include autonomous logistics systems for smart buildings and advanced aviation training simulations, showcasing practical applications across multiple industries.
Building future-ready talent
These initiatives reflect a broader priority of equipping students with hands-on, experiential learning that connects academic theory with real industry needs. By engaging directly with industry stakeholders, students gain exposure to commercialisation pathways and wider innovation ecosystems, strengthening the pipeline of future-ready talent. This approach aligns closely with national priorities such as Operation 300bn, which aims to significantly expand the industrial sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP.
A unified vision for sustainable growth
Collectively, these perspectives underscore the multidimensional impact of Make it in the Emirates 2026. The platform goes beyond showcasing industrial capabilities to actively enabling collaboration between manufacturers, healthcare providers, and academic institutions. It reflects a unified strategy where innovation, talent development, and sustainability come together to drive long-term economic progress.
As the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global industrial hub, initiatives like this are playing a vital role in accelerating transformation. By aligning policy direction, investment, and cross-sector collaboration, the country is building a strong foundation for sustainable growth—one that is both globally competitive and locally anchored.
