In a move to reinforce its industrial transformation, the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) of the United Arab Emirates has entered into two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with global industry influencers. These agreements aim to drive regulatory innovation, support domestic manufacturing, and enhance the UAE’s industrial ecosystem.
The partnerships were unveiled at the Make it in the Emirates Forum 2025, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), a leading event platform focused on advancing national industrial capabilities.
The first agreement was formalized between MoIAT and the Multinational Companies Business Group (MCBG). Signed by Dr. Farah Al Zarooni, Assistant Undersecretary for Standardization Affairs at MoIAT, and Turki Bin Moammar, Chairperson of MCBG, the MoU sets a roadmap for collaboration in critical regulatory areas.
These include:
- Joint technical committees
- Capacity-building initiatives
- Innovation-focused programs
- Knowledge and talent exchanges
“This agreement allows us to foster deeper alignment with international regulatory frameworks while encouraging innovation,” said Dr. Al Zarooni.
With member companies holding a combined market value exceeding $12 trillion, MCBG brings deep expertise from sectors such as energy, healthcare, consumer goods, and advanced manufacturing.
“We are honored to work with MoIAT to create future-ready regulatory models and empower local industries,” remarked Turki Bin Moammar.
MoU With Majid Al Futtaim to Boost Locally Made Products
The second MoU was signed with Majid Al Futtaim Retail, the exclusive franchisee of Carrefour in the UAE. The partnership focuses on increasing demand for high-quality Emirati products across the group’s vast retail network.
The ceremony took place at ADNOC headquarters and was attended by:
- Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology
- Omar Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary, MoIAT
- Dr. Günther Helm, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim – Retail
- Dr. Younus Hassan Al Mulla, Chief Global Development & Government Officer at Majid Al Futtaim – Retail
“This step supports food security, promotes self-sufficiency, and enhances sustainable supply chains in the UAE,”
said Dr. Helm.
This partnership is an extension of MoIAT’s “Make it in the Emirates” initiative, which encourages local production, attracts investments, and supports SMEs.
The fourth edition of the forum, under the theme “Advanced Industries. Accelerated.”, concluded with over AED 11 billion worth of new industrial projects announced. Co-hosted by MoIAT and organized by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), the event drew participation from strategic partners including:
- Ministry of Culture
- Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)
- ADNOC
“The UAE leads the region in industrial competitiveness,”
said Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Undersecretary for Industry Accelerators at MoIAT.
“Our success is driven by partnerships, investment in innovation, and strong policy support for national industries.”
These alliances reflect the UAE’s strategic emphasis on public-private collaboration to create an agile, future-ready industrial landscape.
The signing of these MoUs signals a significant leap in achieving the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology. By aligning with multinational corporations and major retailers, the country aims to solidify its position as a global industrial hub while promoting sustainability and economic self-reliance.
