The Industrialists Career Exhibition has surpassed its employment target for UAE nationals in the industrial and advanced technology sectors, creating more than 5,200 job opportunities in less than three years.
Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during the exhibition’s 2026 edition, Hassan Al Nowais, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), said the target was achieved a full year ahead of schedule after it was originally announced during the Make it in the Emirates initiative in 2023.
Employment Goals Reached Ahead of Schedule
According to Al Nowais, the exhibition plays an important role in supporting the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology by connecting industrial companies and technology firms with Emirati talent.
In addition to job opportunities, the event provides career guidance, skills development initiatives and professional training designed to prepare UAE nationals for careers in future-focused industries.
Thousands of Emirati Job Seekers Participated
More than 4,500 job seekers attended the two-day exhibition, reflecting strong interest in opportunities across industrial and advanced technology sectors.
During the first day alone, more than 1,800 candidates participated while companies conducted over 7,300 job interviews.
The exhibition featured more than 1,000 vacancies offered by over 70 companies operating across a range of strategic sectors.
Available positions covered fields including artificial intelligence, engineering, advanced manufacturing, clean energy and industrial services.
According to Al Nowais, more than 800 Emirati candidates were preliminarily qualified for employment opportunities during the exhibition.
Supporting Industrial Growth and Emiratisation
The exhibition forms part of the wider Make it in the Emirates initiative and the National In-Country Value Program, both of which aim to strengthen local industrial capabilities while increasing workforce participation among UAE nationals.
The programs are designed to align industrial development with job creation by encouraging companies to invest in local talent and advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Industrial Sector Continues to Expand
Al Nowais noted that the UAE’s industrial sector has recorded significant growth in recent years as part of broader efforts to diversify the national economy.
According to figures shared during the event, the sector’s contribution to the UAE economy has increased by approximately 70% since 2021.
Industrial exports also surpassed AED262 billion during 2025, highlighting the growing role of manufacturing and advanced industries within the country’s economic strategy.
Why It Matters
The UAE continues to accelerate investment in advanced manufacturing, industrial technology and future industries as part of its long-term economic diversification plans. Creating employment pathways for Emirati talent within these sectors remains a key pillar of that strategy, helping ensure local participation keeps pace with industrial growth and technological transformation.
