Abu Dhabi: The UAE’s industrial sector recorded a significant milestone in 2024, contributing Dh190 billion (USD 51.74 billion) to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), a 62 per cent increase compared to 2020, according to Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology.
Dr. Al Jaber announced the figures during the UAE International Media Forum and the UAE Government Annual Meetings held in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. The meetings included sessions of the Cabinet, five federal councils, and multiple national and local committees.
The minister highlighted that industrial exports reached Dh197 billion in 2024, putting the nation on a strong trajectory toward achieving its Dh300 billion target by 2031.
Dr. Al Jaber emphasized that the global landscape is changing rapidly and that the UAE must continue to innovate and adapt. “We must stay ahead of these changes and remain flexible in navigating them,” he said. “Our focus will be on developing new industries and strengthening emerging sectors such as renewable energy, semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence, battery production, and electric vehicles.”
He added that innovation and agility will remain essential for sustaining growth in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, also spoke at the forum, reaffirming the country’s commitment to advancing AI talent and capabilities.
“We now have over 450,000 computer programmers, a 376.9% increase since 2020,” Al Olama said. “The UAE ranks among the world’s top 10 destinations for attracting AI talent, according to the Boston Consulting Group’s Global Talent Index.”
He revealed that the UAE has invested AED 543 billion in artificial intelligence since 2024, a clear indication of the country’s ambition to become a global leader in AI and digital innovation.
Looking ahead, Al Olama shared plans to launch a digital academy and a dedicated jobs platform to create more AI-related employment opportunities within the digital economy. These initiatives are designed to empower young professionals and ensure that the UAE remains at the forefront of technological advancement.
With strong leadership direction, strategic investments, and a growing base of skilled professionals, the UAE continues to reinforce its position as a regional hub for industry and innovation, where economic diversification and technology progress go hand in hand.
