What's on the Agenda for the Last Day of Make it in the Emirates 2026?

As the fifth anniversary of Make it in the Emirates draws to a close, the final day of the event on May 7, 2026, promises to be a defining moment for the UAE's industrial future. Hosted at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, the concluding session, themed "Impact: Youth, Innovation and Global Partnerships for the Next-Gen Industry," is designed to bridge the gap between national ambition and global execution. The agenda focuses heavily on unlocking the industrial potential of the next generation, scaling innovation, and forging the strategic alliances necessary for a resilient economy.

Launching Shabab AI and Redefining Future Workforce Skills

The day kicks off with a series of high-level dialogues in the Momentum Hall, centering on the integration of youth into the advanced industrial landscape. A key highlight is the official launch of "Shabab AI," a groundbreaking initiative leveraging artificial intelligence and robotics to ensure supply chain continuity across the UAE. This launch will be spearheaded by H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, alongside key figures from the Cyber Security Council, Khalifa University, and EDGE.

The initiative underscores a significant shift toward preparing Emirati talent for roles that go beyond traditional technology careers. A subsequent panel discussion, "Empowering Tomorrow: The Skills That Can't Be Automated," will explore the specific competencies required for the next wave of industrial leaders. Featuring insights from the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (NAFIS) and industry leaders from EDGE and KBR, the conversation aims to demystify the changing nature of jobs in an era of rapid automation, offering a roadmap for youth entrepreneurship and future industrial leadership.

Curated Intelligence and High-Value Strategic Partnerships

Parallel to the main stage discussions, the event's "House of Industry" will continue to bring the nation's industrial journey to life through immersive storytelling. Visitors can explore landmark achievements and future ambitions, gaining a tangible understanding of how industry drives economic growth.

For senior policymakers and decision-makers, the "Make it in the Emirates Intelligence Hub" offers a curated, invitation-only environment. Strategically positioned along the VIP route, the Hub convenes leading national and international innovators to present future-ready solutions. Unlike traditional exhibition floors that prioritize volume, the Hub focuses on relevance, credibility, and strategic fit. It provides a unique opportunity for partners to engage in trusted, high-value collaborations within a stable and pro-investment ecosystem, reinforcing the event's role as a global convening platform for industrial value creation.

Innovate to Defend: Mobilizing Local Talent for National Security

Innovation and defense security also take center stage with the "Innovate to Defend" competition by EDGE. Running throughout the event at the EDGE Main Stand in Hall #7, this national Call for Ideas invites UAE-based innovators, researchers, and startups to submit bold concepts addressing critical defense challenges.

Selected participants will have their ideas evaluated by EDGE experts, with top submissions receiving cash awards. This initiative highlights the event's commitment to engaging the local talent pool in solving real-world security threats and strengthening national capabilities. By enabling the development of innovative, scalable solutions, the competition directly contributes to the UAE's national defense and security architecture.

Celebrating Talent and Scaling Global Ambitions

The day will also feature the graduation ceremony for the National Young Professional Program, celebrating the achievements of the next generation of industrial talent. Sessions on "Scaling Success" and "The Power of Purpose" will provide platforms for business leaders and entrepreneurs to share insights on building sustainable industrial futures and navigating the complexities of global markets.

As the event concludes, the overarching message is clear: the UAE is not just a participant in the global manufacturing landscape but a driving force. By combining financing models aligned with the industrial growth roadmap, SME access to credit, and a relentless focus on youth empowerment, Make it in the Emirates is turning applied research into economic value. The final day serves as a testament to the nation's ability to build products locally for global markets, ensuring that the UAE remains a secure, dynamic, and competitive investment hub for decades to come.