Abu dhabi: The Industrialists Career Exhibition has exceeded its target set during the 'Make it in the Emirates 2023' initiative, achieving over 5,200 employment opportunities for UAE nationals in the industrial and advanced technology sectors in under three years, a year ahead of schedule.
According to Emirates News Agency, this milestone showcases the UAE's successful strategy of integrating industrial development with human capital advancement, as emphasized by Hassan Al Nowais, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT). Speaking at the 2026 edition of the exhibition, Al Nowais highlighted the event's role as a strategic tool within the Make it in the Emirates initiative and the National In-Country Value (ICV) Programme, facilitating the connection between industrial growth and national talent development.
Al Nowais explained that the exhibition supports the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology by providing a comprehensive platform for industry and technology firms to engage with Emirati talent, enhance career awareness, and promote vocational and professional development. He noted the growing participation in the 2026 edition, indicating rising confidence in the industrial sector's role as a driver of economic progress.
The exhibition attracted more than 4,500 job seekers over two days, with over 1,800 attending on the first day alone, resulting in more than 7,300 job interviews. It led to the preliminary qualification of over 800 Emiratis for employment, fueled by more than 1,000 job openings from over 70 leading national companies in fields such as artificial intelligence, engineering, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and industrial services.
Al Nowais pointed out that the UAE's industrial sector has experienced significant growth, contributing approximately 70% more to the gross domestic product since 2021. Industrial exports surpassed AED262 billion in 2025, highlighting the effectiveness of the UAE's industrial policies in attracting investment and boosting the competitiveness of national products in international markets.