Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has approved several key decisions at a recent Cabinet meeting, aiming to fortify the UAE's industrial capabilities and support national products. These decisions include the establishment of a National Industrial Resilience Fund with a capital of AED1 billion, designed to bolster the localisation of critical industries and enhance supply chain resilience across the country.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of these measures in accelerating the UAE's industrial growth. He highlighted the fund's role in expanding local production, securing supply chains, and integrating artificial intelligence into production and operations. Additionally, the Cabinet has made the National In-Country Value Programme mandatory for all government entities and national companies, with a clear target to fully localise more than 5,000 critical products.
The newly established fund will focus on increasing self-sufficiency and ensuring the UAE's readiness for vital products. It will enhance economic security and support the expansion of local manufacturing, strategic reserves, and industrial value chains in priority sectors. Resources from the fund will be allocated in alignment with national priorities, including food security and critical industrial sectors such as pharmaceuticals, advanced technology, and construction.
Furthermore, the Cabinet approved amendments to the National In-Country Value Programme, transitioning it to a mandatory model across selected sectors. This decision aims to direct government and institutional demand towards priority national products, thereby strengthening national industrial security and enhancing supply chain readiness.
A policy to boost the presence of national products across retail outlets and digital platforms has also been approved. This initiative aims to increase the visibility of UAE-manufactured products and integrate them into major supply chains. The initial phase will focus on essential products with scalable local production, coordinated with private sector partners and retailers.
In preparation for the fifth edition of the 'Make it in the Emirates' platform, set to take place from May 4th to 7th in Abu Dhabi, the Cabinet anticipates attracting over 120,000 visitors and more than 1,000 exhibitors. The event will announce procurement opportunities and support the localisation of critical products, contributing to reduced reliance on single sources and stronger supply chain resilience.
Additionally, the establishment of a National Industrial Data Committee has been approved to address data challenges and enhance integration with national systems. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, noted that these decisions reflect the leadership's vision for a resilient and sustainable national industrial model, bolstered by the localisation of critical industries and the adoption of artificial intelligence.