The UAE’s industrial zones across various emirates have witnessed a significant surge in the establishment of new factories and industrial facilities across multiple sectors during 2024 and the first half of 2025.
Key industries such as steel, aluminum, cables, and heavy manufacturing have undergone notable expansion, marked by the launch of major industrial projects backed by substantial investment. The petrochemical sector, in particular, has seen rapid growth. According to the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the UAE accounted for 18.6 million tonnes of the GCC’s total petrochemical output in 2021. With continued expansion, this figure is expected to reach 20 million tonnes annually, with projected annual growth of 8–10% over the next five years.
At the fourth edition of the “Make it in the Emirates” forum in late May, over AED 11 billion worth of new industrial projects and procurement opportunities were announced, along with AED 40 billion in competitive financing solutions to support the growth of SMEs in the industrial sector.
The UAE’s industrial sector has shown impressive growth in recent years, becoming the second-largest contributor to non-oil GDP in 2024, valued at AED 210 billion—a 2.5% increase compared to 2023. Industrial exports also rose to AED 197 billion, up AED 10 billion, reflecting a 5.5% year-on-year increase.
In Dubai, the manufacturing sector plays a key role in supporting economic development. Government initiatives have helped attract new investments focused on advanced manufacturing technologies. The total value of Dubai’s manufacturing sector reached AED 28.3 billion in the first nine months of 2024.
Multiple stakeholders, including Dubai Industrial City, National Industries Park, Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, Dubai Chambers, and Dubai South, have collaborated to drive transformation in the emirate’s manufacturing landscape.