UAE industrial hub reports growing interest from Indian companies in steel, pharmaceuticals, food processing and glass manufacturing, with trade ties expected to support further expansion
DUBAI, Nov 6: Dubai Industrial City is seeking to attract more Indian manufacturing companies as growing business interest and strengthening economic ties between India and the United Arab Emirates create opportunities for industrial investment and exports.
Saud Abu Alshawareb, executive vice-president of industrial leasing at TECOM Group, said Indian companies were increasingly investing in sectors such as steel, glass, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals.
Dubai Industrial City, which currently hosts around 1,100 business partners and more than 350 operational factories, is positioning itself as a manufacturing and export base for Indian businesses seeking access to regional and international markets.
The growing interest comes amid closer economic cooperation between India and the UAE, particularly following the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The trade pact has expanded market access and created additional opportunities for businesses in both countries.
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Dubai Industrial City’s location near Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum International Airport and major highways provides manufacturers with access to key transport and logistics infrastructure, supporting the movement of goods across international markets
Industrial space demand in the district remains strong, with occupancy levels reported at nearly 98 per cent.
Alshawareb also highlighted the increasing importance of technology and sustainability in manufacturing operations. In partnership with the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, factories are being assessed for digitalisation and automation under the Industrial Technology Transformation Index.
The UAE’s planned government procurement opportunities, estimated at more than USD 43 billion over the next decade, are also expected to strengthen confidence among international businesses considering local manufacturing operations.
Dubai Industrial City’s strategy reflects the emirate’s broader ambition to expand its industrial sector and strengthen its position as a global manufacturing and logistics centre.
For Indian companies, the industrial hub offers an opportunity to combine manufacturing capabilities with Dubai’s international connectivity and access to overseas markets.
