The Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy Drives Accelerated Growth

New data released by the Abu Dhabi Chamber highlights a significant upswing in industrial licensing activities across the emirate (excluding free zones). In 2023 alone, the issuance of new licenses experienced a remarkable 51% increase, reaching a total of 363 by the year's end. This surge underscores Abu Dhabi's burgeoning status as a prominent industrial hub in the region.

The momentum behind this growth is further propelled by the introduction of the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy. This strategic initiative is aimed at catalyzing substantial expansion within the industrial sector, thereby enhancing its contribution to the emirate's GDP.

The ambitious objectives outlined by the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy include doubling the size of the manufacturing sector to Dh172 billion, generating 13,600 skilled employment opportunities, and elevating Abu Dhabi's non-oil exports by 143% to Dh178.8 billion by 2031. Moreover, the strategy aims to bolster the UAE's standing in global industrial competitiveness indices, where the nation currently holds the top regional position and ranks 29th globally according to the UNIDO Competitive Industrial Performance Index.

Data provided by the Abu Dhabi Chamber also indicates a growing presence of foreign enterprises in the emirate's industrial landscape. In 2023, 46 foreign companies engaged in a diverse array of industrial activities, with mining support services emerging as the leading sector, attracting participation from 13 foreign entities. Additionally, sectors such as chemicals and basic metals witnessed notable involvement, with 5 and 4 foreign companies respectively.

The spectrum of industrial activities in Abu Dhabi is expansive, encompassing sectors ranging from wood and wood product manufacturing to computer, electronic, and optical product manufacturing. Other key sectors include paper and paper product manufacturing, rubber and plastic product manufacturing, and beverage manufacturing, among others.