In 2021, the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology launched the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology (Operation 300bn) which aims to increase industry's contribution to GDP to AED 300 billion by 2031.

One of the strategy's key pillars is the Make it in the Emirates initiative. It was launched as part of the ministry's efforts to create an attractive business environment for industrial investors, support the growth of national industry and enhance its competitiveness.

Furthermore, the initiative aims to facilitate the development and adoption of advanced technology and 4IR solutions such as artificial intelligence. This strengthens the UAE's position as an innovation hub and leading destination for production and export best practices.

Over the past three years, the ministry has taken significant steps towards aligning with national objectives - such as the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative - while enhancing quality and production efficiency.

Our Make it in the Emirates initiative is one of the key enablers of industrial sustainability in the UAE. It fosters trust in local industries, contributes to sustainable development targets and highlights the role of industry in boosting in-country value - ultimately achieving sustainable economic and social integration.

The initiative is an inspiring model of federal and local integration, achieved through collaboration among stakeholders including federal and local entities and the private sector.

Local manufacturers can now apply for the three-year renewable Made in the Emirates mark, proposed by MoIAT and issued by the cabinet.

Achieving self-sufficiency across vital and priority industries is a strategic objective that the ministry aims to achieve, primarily through our initiatives, projects, and plans. Made in the Emirates products are a key element in enhancing consumer confidence, which supports import substitution.

We have prepared a comprehensive guide on the Made in the Emirates mark and the online application process. MoIAT also regularly organizes informative workshops for companies operating in the industrial sector across the UAE. They aim to familiarize participants with the competitive and promotional advantages that the mark will provide for locally manufactured products.

Make it in the Emirates exemplifies impactful national initiatives, spotlighting local industrial capabilities and sustainability. It contributes to decarbonization and reduces emissions through supply chain localization. The initiative also provides consumers and the national economy with added value in the form of high-quality products. Furthermore, it plays a key role in enhancing the competitiveness of UAE products in regional and global markets.

Our nation has exerted extraordinary efforts to create a supportive business environment to attract investment in the industrial sector. Today, we are enhancing the identity of our products through a national symbol of confidence and reliability. This confidence and reliability helps products to access regional and international markets, in addition to supporting clean, sustainable manufacturing practices.

I invite UAE manufacturers to obtain the Made in the Emirates mark by applying for a license through MoIAT. Through a set of criteria, local companies can ensure their products meet safety requirements in accordance with the relevant federal laws.

I would also like to congratulate the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock, which obtained the Made in the Emirates mark for its Saba Sanabel flour. It is the first national product to obtain the mark for meeting quality and safety standards. This achievement enhances consumer confidence and supports the product's competitiveness.

In addition, we have six other factories that have obtained the mark during the past few weeks, demonstrating their confidence in its ability to open new horizons for their products. This is just the beginning, and I hope to soon see the Made in the Emirates mark branded in stores, supermarkets, and e-commerce sites across all seven emirates - and far beyond.

Dr. Farah Ali Al Zarouni
Assistant Undersecretary, Standards and Legislation Sector, MoIAT