As the UAE emerges as a hub of innovation, the opportunities that have opened up are commendable.

The ease of doing business and the connections the region enjoys with others makes “Made in UAE” a factor for a whole new cycle of growth.

The consumer is spoilt for choice, making quality the deciding factor in a purchase. It makes so much business sense to produce and procure locally instead of importing. The benefits have even proven to be crucial in increasing efficiency.

Having direct control over supply chains or greater flexibility in responding to disruptions will help businesses. The availability of adequate resources and the support infrastructure are the major catalysts allowing them to chase growth possibilities. Local firms need to understand the economic benefits of becoming more self-sufficient, and entrepreneurs can use this to create new possibilities.

Constant innovations will continue to boost the “Made in UAE” movement and allow us to move closer to global standards. The quality check system leaves no room for compromise, thus ensuring an edge in competing with international players. This is a fool-proof way to ensure the products you make are of sufficient quality, thus benefitting everyone in the supply and delivery cycle.

The UAE’s internal policies and its free trade agreements, especially those within the Gulf, have guaranteed a larger market for “Made in UAE” products. This environment is highly conducive for manufacturers, as the abundance of raw materials, construction projects and manpower come together to make it the place for production.

The weather also acts as a natural quality check for some businesses. It means that products need to withstand extreme temperatures, which is why the UAE government’s rules on fire safety products are among the strictest.

UAE has its own quality checks that are committed to meet customers’ needs. These checks exist across all types of business and ensure stellar quality through regular inspections and stringent criteria. Working methods are regularly reviewed and audited to identify and eliminate any unsatisfactory processes, which I think is an effective way to ensure businesses treat quality as a top priority.

The Dubai Accreditation Centre and Emirates Quality Mark are examples of standards that a UAE product is expected to adhere to. Moreover, the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA) makes it even more difficult for counterfeit products to circulate in the market.

With constant evolution, companies are now dedicated to investing in research and development and utilize advanced technology to produce the best. These will aid in boosting “Made in UAE” as a valuable entity in itself.

Safdar Badami is Managing Director of Al Muqarram Industry.