ADDED sets new roadmap to push Al Ain’s economic growth

Dubai: The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development has gathered government partners, investors and private-sector leaders in a high-level workshop to map out the next phase of Al Ain’s economic development. The meeting, held under the title “Al Ain Horizons Towards the Future 2026,” focused on strengthening the region’s role as a core contributor to Abu Dhabi’s wider growth and diversification strategy.

The discussions centred on identifying priority projects, improving policy coordination and building a more integrated ecosystem for investment and entrepreneurship. Participants also examined how to strengthen public-private partnerships and create clearer pathways for talent development in sectors where Al Ain holds a natural advantage.

Focus on sectors tied to Al Ain’s competitive strengths

Smart agriculture, tourism, higher education and advanced manufacturing were among the key areas highlighted during the workshop. Officials and industry representatives reviewed how these sectors could be further developed through targeted initiatives, coordinated planning and new investment channels. Strengthening support for productive families, enhancing cultural and tourism offerings and reinforcing Al Ain’s position as the region’s leading desert oasis were also central points of discussion.

Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of ADDED, said the region is already a major contributor to the Emirate’s non-oil economy. “By bringing together government entities, investors, and entrepreneurs, we are developing more collaborative initiatives in line with our shared priorities to create measurable outcomes, by creating new jobs, expanding opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life.”

He noted that the city has attracted more than AED 128.5 billion in non-oil investments across transportation, energy and manufacturing. “We are committed to building the right synergies to empower talents, entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses to seize emerging opportunities, reinforcing Al Ain’s role as a key driver of diversification and enduring prosperity,” he said.

Agencies outline plans to support business and investment growth

Senior representatives from the Department of Culture and Tourism, Al Ain International Airport, the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the Abu Dhabi Chamber, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Al Ain Municipality, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council joined the workshop to outline current initiatives and upcoming opportunities.

Nafis addressed labour market needs and ways to align talent programmes with Al Ain’s economic priorities. ADIO and the Khalifa Fund highlighted investment opportunities and entrepreneur-focused support schemes, while the Abu Dhabi Chamber set out how the private sector can take a greater role in the region’s next phase of growth.

The Abu Dhabi Registration Authority, ADDED’s arm for business-sector regulation, presented its work to simplify licensing, enhance commercial protection and create a more predictable environment for investors.