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Manufacturers

Be a part of building Dubai's global industrial powerhouse.

Be a part of building Dubai's global industrial powerhouse.

Dubai is a pivotal hub for manufacturing, propelling the UAE to lead the region in industrial competitiveness. Substantial investments in tech, resilient supply chains, a last-mile logistics network and world-renowned ports power the industrial ecosystem.

Top manufacturing companies in Dubai like Unilever and M Glory Group leverage advanced technologies and functional infrastructure to streamline operations and boost productivity. They also benefit from programmes that enhance local production and in-country value (ICV). 

Driven by such initiatives, the manufacturing and industrial sector has seen consistent year-on-year growth. In the first nine months of 2023, it contributed 8.3% to Dubai’s GDP with a value of US$7.46 (AED27.4 billion). Top-performing activities include heavy industries, chemicals, machinery and equipment, and F&B. Further enhancements to modes of production and scaling of exports in the coming years can significantly contribute to doubling Dubai's GDP in the next decade – a major goal of the D33 agenda.

Operation 300bn: industrial development in the spotlight

One of the top strategic programmes within the field is Operation 300bn – a specialised framework comprising several initiatives designed to increase industrial contribution to the national GDP. 

The primary goal is to fast-track the growth of vital sub-sectors and outline effective policies to boost local manufacturing potential. Financed by the Emirates Development Bank (EDB), Operation 300bn also seeks to foster economic competitiveness, enhance R&D capabilities and position the UAE as a preferred location for industrial innovation. 

The ideal destination for manufacturers

Manufacturing industries in Dubai enjoy easy access to high-potential markets around the world. The city also boasts a skilled and diverse workforce, with progressive business policies and regulations. Multiple free zones offer comprehensive assistance for business set-up, licensing and visas, office spaces, warehouses and logistics support.

Dubai Industrial City (DIC), one of the largest regional manufacturing and logistics hubs, houses hundreds of factories in Dubai. It features six zones, each dedicated to a key sub-sector, and creating a seamlessly interconnected supply chain. 

Another important enabler of the manufacturing industry in Dubai is the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), home to 790+ manufacturers from 73 countries. It provides everything from logistics facilities to light industrial units, warehouses and showrooms, and comprehensive support for relevant businesses.

Key sector data

Custom manufacturing market size

According to a recent report, the GCC custom manufacturing market size is poised to grow from US$898.3 billion in 2022 to US$1,287.29 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% over the forecasted period.

Manufacturing – value added (% of GDP) – in the UAE was reported at 9.7% in 2022, according to the World Bank's development indicators.

Dubai Industrial Strategy

Aluminium production

The UAE is already an important global aluminium production hub, accounting for 10% of global production. Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) supplies to more than 50 countries. 

Industrial sector contribution

According to the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), the industrial sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP has reached US$53.6 billion (AED197 billion), accounting for 30% of the ambitious Operation 300bn target – a 38% increase from AED132 billion in 2020.

Dubai Industrial City (DIC)

DIC – one of the region’s largest industrial manufacturing and logistics hubs – is home to more than 800 customers and 300 operational factories divided into six sector-focused zones that encourage collaboration and eliminate supply chain uncertainties for manufacturers. The district aims to have more than 500 operational factories in the freezone by 2026.

In June 2023, DIC confirmed it had attracted almost US$ 272.29 million (AED1 billion) in investments from local and global manufacturing companies. DIC reported a 17% growth in customer numbers in 2023.

JAFZA

JAFZA is the world’s largest freezone. In addition to offering zero personal and corporate tax, 100% ownership and zero import or re-export duties, JAFZA offers dedicated food, agriculture and medical solutions hubs.

It is home to 7,000+ companies across various industries, representing 120+ countries including over 100 of the Fortune 500 companies Roughly 23% of these companies are focused on manufacturing and assembly operations.

Dubai International Financial Centre - Fintech Entrepreneurs meeting
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