ADNEC Group CEO Humaid Al Dhaheri emphasized that the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026 will be the largest in the event’s history, spanning more than 88,000 square meters, up 30 percent year-on-year, and featuring 1,245 exhibitors, a 73 percent increase from 2025.
The Make it in the Emirates 2026 will take place from May 4 to May 7, 2026, at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, with participation from all seven emirates. The event is hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, ADNOC, and L’imad Holding Company.
Event scale and participation surge at Make it in the Emirates 2026
Al Dhaheri noted that the expanded footprint and exhibitor growth reflect rising industrial momentum in the UAE and increasing demand for the platform. ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi offers advanced infrastructure aligned with global standards, supporting a seamless experience for exhibitors and visitors.
The Make it in the Emirates 2026 venue, the largest in the Middle East, includes 12 interconnected halls, including temporary Hall 13, which will host two newly launched features and support small and medium-sized enterprises.
He added that the centre is supported by multiple onsite and nearby hotels, as well as surrounding retail and hospitality facilities catering to international and local delegations.
Sustainability and global recognition
Al Dhaheri highlighted that the venue holds ISO 20121:2012 certification for sustainable event management and has received global recognition, including the Best Venue outside of the United Kingdom award from C&IT. All events at the venue for Make it in the Emirates 2026 are powered by clean energy, underscoring ADNEC Group’s sustainability commitments.
Rep. Image credits: Make it in the Emirates 2026| Cropped by GBN
Operational readiness and logistics
ADNEC Group is fully prepared to deliver Make it in the Emirates 2026to the highest standards, Al Dhaheri said, citing the center’s track record in hosting major regional events. He added that advanced crowd management systems powered by artificial intelligence will ensure smooth visitor flow, alongside coordination with Abu Dhabi authorities to facilitate traffic and access.
Economic impact and industry role
Al Dhaheri said the exhibitions and conferences sector plays a critical role in advancing the UAE’s industrial development by promoting national products, opening new markets, and strengthening competitiveness.
Since its inception, ADNEC Group has contributed to economic growth by hosting large-scale events attracting millions of visitors and supporting diversification across sectors.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri MD and Group CEO – ADNEC Group
“These industries contribute to increasing both direct and indirect contributions to the national economy, supporting thousands of jobs, and generating millions of hotel nights annually through the events hosted at its centers. It operates the largest event venue in the Middle East, which runs entirely on clean energy, reflecting the UAE’s leadership in adopting sustainability principles and goals. This aligns with the group’s strategy to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as the capital of the events sector in the region.”
Digital transformation and AI integration
Al Dhaheri said ADNEC Group is leveraging advanced digital solutions, including a partnership with Presight to deploy AI-powered platforms that analyse visitor traffic and enhance event management. The group has also implemented an Integrated Building Management System (IBMS) and smart parking solutions to improve efficiency and accessibility.
These digital transformation initiatives streamline operational processes, improve sustainability, and elevate the overall experience for participants and visitors, aligning with the highest global standards, Al Dhaheri noted.
Rep. Image credits: Make it in the Emirates 2026| Cropped by GBN
Strategic importance of Make it in the Emirates
Al Dhaheri asserted that Make it in the Emirates is a key driver of industrial investment and growth in the UAE. The previous edition facilitated agreements and procurement contracts worth AED11 billion and attracted significant investments, while supporting the National In-Country Value (ICV) program.
“The Make it in the Emirates 2026 has shown increased momentum, surpassing previous performance and operational benchmarks. This progress further boosts the UAE’s industrial and economic growth, aligning with the nation’s vision for sustainable development and global competitiveness,” Al Daheri concluded.
