How to Start Manufacturing Plant Business in Dubai,Uae

Dubai, renowned for its visionary leadership and rapid economic diversification, has emerged as a compelling hub for the manufacturing sector. Beyond its glittering skyscrapers and booming tourism, the emirate is actively cultivating a robust industrial landscape, positioning itself as a strategic center for production, innovation, and global trade. Driven by initiatives like the “Make it in the Emirates” campaign and the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030, the government is committed to increasing the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP, fostering local production, and attracting foreign direct investment in advanced manufacturing technologies.

This proactive approach has resulted in world-class infrastructure, including specialized industrial zones, seamless logistics networks, and supportive regulatory frameworks designed to facilitate industrial growth. From advanced electronics and food processing to heavy machinery, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy components, Dubai offers a fertile ground for manufacturers seeking efficiency, global connectivity, and access to rapidly expanding regional and international markets. The strategic location at the crossroads of major trade routes, combined with a business-friendly environment, makes Dubai an attractive proposition for entrepreneurs looking to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant.

However, embarking on a manufacturing venture involves navigating a distinct set of complexities: identifying the right industrial zone, securing specialized licenses, adhering to stringent environmental and safety regulations, optimizing supply chains, and, crucially, raising significant capital for machinery, infrastructure, and operations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to launch your manufacturing plant business in Dubai, emphasizing how a strategic partner like Aviaan Accounting can provide crucial support at every stage – from orchestrating intricate company formation and conducting rigorous feasibility studies to performing insightful market research and securing vital funding.

How to Start Manufacturing Plant Business in Dubai,Uae

Dubai’s Industrial Heartbeat

Dubai’s manufacturing sector is characterized by its strategic importance, supportive ecosystem, and ambitious growth targets. Key aspects that make it an attractive destination include:

Government Initiatives and Vision:
- The “Make it in the Emirates” campaign actively promotes and incentivizes local manufacturing, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on imports.
- The Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030 seeks to elevate Dubai into a global hub for knowledge-based, innovative, and sustainable manufacturing, focusing on key sub-sectors.
- Government support extends to providing attractive incentives, streamlining regulatory processes, and investing in advanced industrial infrastructure.
Strategic Location and Global Connectivity:
- Situated at the intersection of major trade routes, Dubai offers unparalleled access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
- Proximity to world-class ports like Jebel Ali Port (one of the largest in the world) and Al Maktoum International Airport ensures efficient import of raw materials and export of finished goods.
- Excellent road networks further enhance domestic and regional distribution.
Specialized Industrial Zones:
- Dedicated industrial free zones and areas provide tailored infrastructure, land plots, warehouses, and supportive ecosystems for manufacturing operations.
- These zones often offer significant incentives like 100% foreign ownership, corporate tax exemptions, and customs duty benefits.
Robust Infrastructure and Logistics:
- State-of-the-art logistics capabilities, including advanced warehousing, cold chain facilities, and multimodal transportation, are crucial for efficient supply chain management in manufacturing.
- Reliable utilities (electricity, water) and telecommunications infrastructure are readily available.
Favorable Business Environment:
- Tax Benefits: Zero personal income tax, low corporate tax rates (9% on profits over AED 375,000, with potential exemptions for qualifying free zone entities), and no capital gains tax.
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Allows foreign investors full control over their manufacturing companies in many sectors.
- Repatriation of Profits: Full repatriation of profits and capital without restrictions.
- Ease of Doing Business: Streamlined processes for company registration and licensing, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Access to Diverse Markets:
- Growing local and regional consumer markets with increasing demand for quality manufactured goods.
- Proximity to emerging economies in the MEASA region.
Focus on Key Manufacturing Verticals:
- Food and Beverage (F&B): Processing, packaging, and re-export of food products.
- Metals and Machinery: Aluminium, steel fabrication, light machinery, industrial equipment.
- Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals: Petrochemicals, building materials, medical devices, and pharmaceutical products.
- Electronics and Electrical Equipment: Assembly and manufacturing of various electronic components and appliances.
- Textiles and Apparel: Production of fabrics, garments, and related accessories.
- Sustainable and Advanced Manufacturing: Emphasis on green technologies, smart factories, and Industry 4.0 applications.
Skilled Workforce:
- Dubai attracts a diverse and skilled workforce, offering access to talent in engineering, production, logistics, and quality control.

These collective advantages position Dubai as a prime destination for establishing and scaling a successful manufacturing plant. However, the path to setting up such an enterprise requires meticulous planning, significant capital, and expert guidance.

Steps to Launch Your Manufacturing Plant in Dubai

Starting a manufacturing plant in Dubai involves a series of complex and interconnected steps that demand a deep understanding of industrial processes, regulatory compliance, and market dynamics.

Step 1: Define Your Manufacturing Product and Niche

Your journey begins with a clear articulation of what you intend to manufacture and for whom.

Product Definition: Clearly define the specific product(s) you will manufacture, its specifications, and the production processes involved.
Target Market: Identify your primary customers (e.g., consumers, businesses, specific industries like construction or automotive) and understand their needs, preferences, and purchasing power.
Value Proposition: Articulate what makes your manufactured product unique or superior (e.g., quality, cost-effectiveness, innovation, sustainability, customization, local production advantage).
Feasibility of Production: Assess the technical feasibility of manufacturing your product in Dubai, considering raw material availability, technology requirements, and skilled labor.

Step 2: In-depth Market Research and Feasibility Study

Comprehensive market research and a detailed feasibility study are paramount to validate your manufacturing idea and assess its viability in the UAE and regional context.

Demand Analysis: Is there sufficient market demand for your product in the UAE and potential export markets? Analyze market size, growth trends, consumer preferences, and import/export data.
Competitive Landscape: Identify existing manufacturers (local and international) producing similar products. Analyze their production capabilities, market share, pricing strategies, distribution networks, and competitive advantages. How will your product compete?
Supply Chain Analysis: Evaluate the availability, cost, and reliability of raw materials, components, machinery, and utilities. Identify potential suppliers and logistics partners.
Technological Assessment: Determine the required machinery, production lines, automation levels, and any specialized technology or intellectual property needed.
Regulatory & Environmental Review: Research the specific regulations for your manufacturing sector (e.g., food safety, pharmaceutical standards, industrial waste management, emissions control). Understand environmental impact assessment (EIA) requirements.
Location Strategy: Assess the suitability of different industrial zones (e.g., JAFZA, Dubai Industrial City, Dubai South, DIP) based on your operational needs, target market, logistics requirements, and available land/warehousing.
Manpower Assessment: Evaluate the availability of skilled labor for your specific manufacturing processes and the associated labor costs.

How Aviaan Accounting Can Help with Market Research & Feasibility Study:

Aviaan Accounting’s Business Consulting services are critical for navigating the intricate landscape of the manufacturing sector and building a robust foundation for your production venture.

Comprehensive Feasibility Study: Aviaan conducts in-depth feasibility studies meticulously tailored to your manufacturing business model. They rigorously analyze the technical, operational, legal, and financial viability of your proposed plant within Dubai’s industrial environment. This includes:
- Market Demand Validation: Integrating your market research data to confirm the specific demand for your manufactured product, identify key customer segments (e.g., B2B, B2C, export markets), and assess the competitive landscape of existing manufacturers and imported goods.
- Operational Blueprint: Assisting in structuring your comprehensive operational plan. This involves mapping out the entire manufacturing process from raw material procurement and inventory management to production lines, quality control, packaging, and logistics. They help in evaluating facility layout, machinery requirements, production capacity, and supply chain efficiencies.
- Regulatory & Environmental Compliance Roadmap: Providing crucial insights into the complex regulatory landscape for manufacturing in Dubai, including industrial licenses from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authorities, environmental permits from Dubai Municipality/Environmental Protection and Development Authority, civil defense approvals, and product-specific certifications (e.g., ESMA for quality, food safety standards for F&B). They help you understand EIA requirements and waste management protocols.
- Detailed Financial Projections: Developing robust and realistic financial models essential for a capital-intensive manufacturing startup:
  - Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Analysis: Estimating substantial initial costs for land lease/purchase, factory construction/renovation, purchasing and installing heavy machinery, production lines, automation systems, utility connections, IT infrastructure, and obtaining initial licenses/permits.
  - Operational Expenditure (OPEX) Budgeting: Mapping out recurring costs for raw materials, utilities (electricity, water, gas), labor wages (including specialized engineers and technicians), machinery maintenance, consumables, logistics and distribution, insurance, quality control, environmental compliance, and administrative overhead.
  - Revenue Forecasting: Projecting income based on your production capacity, sales volume, pricing strategies, and target market penetration, including local sales and export revenues.
  - Profitability & Cash Flow Analysis: Predicting your break-even point, net profit margins, and managing cash flow, which is crucial given the potentially long lead times for setting up and scaling production.
  - Sensitivity Analysis: Assessing how changes in key variables (e.g., raw material costs, energy prices, production volumes, market demand, currency fluctuations) impact your financial performance and long-term sustainability.
Robust Business Plan Development: Aviaan helps you transform your feasibility study into a compelling and comprehensive business plan. This document is not just a roadmap; it’s a critical tool for securing industrial licenses, attracting significant investment, and obtaining financing. It will clearly articulate:
- Your manufacturing vision, mission, and unique value proposition within the UAE’s industrial strategy.
- Detailed market analysis, competitive strategy, and product differentiation.
- A comprehensive operational plan, including production processes, supply chain, and quality control.
- Detailed financial forecasts, precise funding requirements, and projected return on investment.

Their expertise ensures your business plan is credible, data-backed, and tailored to the requirements of potential investors, banks, and regulatory bodies in Dubai’s manufacturing sector.

Step 3: Choosing Your Legal Structure and Jurisdiction (Mainland vs. Free Zone)

This decision is paramount as it impacts ownership, market access, and the regulatory framework. For manufacturing, specialized industrial free zones are often highly advantageous.

Dubai Mainland Company (Department of Economy and Tourism – DET / DED):
- Advantages: Allows you to directly conduct business with the entire UAE market without restrictions. Recent changes permit 100% foreign ownership for many manufacturing activities, removing the previous local sponsor requirement.
- Disadvantages: Subject to DED and other mainland regulatory bodies (Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense, Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology – ESMA). Might be subject to more stringent local content requirements for certain government tenders.
- Relevance for Manufacturing: Suitable if your primary market is the entire UAE and you wish to have direct access to local contracts and distribution channels across the mainland.
Industrial Free Zones (e.g., Jebel Ali Free Zone – JAFZA, Dubai Industrial City – DIC, Dubai South – Logistics District, Dubai Investment Park – DIP):
- Advantages:
  - 100% Foreign Ownership: Full ownership without the need for a local partner.
  - Tax Exemptions: Often offer 0% corporate tax for qualifying income (subject to corporate tax laws now) and no personal income tax.
  - Customs Duty Benefits: Zero customs duties on imports of raw materials and machinery, and on re-exports of finished goods. This is a significant cost saving for manufacturers.
  - Repatriation of Profits: Full repatriation of profits and capital without restrictions.
  - World-Class Infrastructure: Dedicated industrial plots, customizable warehouses, ready-to-use factory units, and integrated logistics solutions.
  - Strategic Location: Proximity to ports, airports, and major road networks for efficient supply chain management.
  - Ease of Setup: Streamlined registration and licensing processes.
  - Supportive Ecosystem: Access to specialized service providers, labor accommodation, and a vibrant community of manufacturers.
- Disadvantages: Primarily restricted to operating within the free zone and exporting out. To sell directly to the UAE mainland, you typically need to appoint a local distributor or set up a separate mainland entity, which may incur 5% customs duty on goods entering the mainland.
- Relevance for Manufacturing: Highly recommended for most manufacturing plants, especially those focused on import of raw materials and export of finished goods, or those requiring large plots of land and specialized industrial infrastructure. JAFZA, in particular, is a global leader for manufacturing.

How Aviaan Accounting Can Help with Company Formation:

Aviaan’s comprehensive Company Formation and Corporate Services are absolutely fundamental for navigating the complexities of setting up your manufacturing plant in Dubai.

Jurisdiction Advisory: They provide expert guidance on selecting the optimal legal structure and jurisdiction, with a strong focus on the advantages of specific industrial free zones like JAFZA, Dubai Industrial City, or Dubai South for manufacturing. They help you understand the implications of mainland vs. free zone regarding ownership, market access, and customs duties for your specific product.
Activity Classification: Assisting in identifying the precise industrial activity classification for your trade license, ensuring it aligns with your manufacturing process and the regulatory requirements of your chosen industrial zone or the DED. This is a critical step for manufacturing.
Trade Name Reservation: Guiding you through the process of reserving a unique and compliant trade name that adheres to UAE naming conventions.
Document Preparation & Submission: Handling all necessary paperwork, including Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), detailed business plans (often required for industrial licenses), lease agreements for factory space, and specific application forms for the DED or relevant free zone authority. They ensure meticulous preparation and timely submission, which is crucial for manufacturing licenses.
Liaison with Regulatory Authorities: Acting as your professional representative with the Department of Economic Development (DED), the specific free zone authority (e.g., JAFZA, DIC), Dubai Municipality (for environmental permits), Dubai Civil Defense (for safety approvals), and other relevant government entities. This significantly streamlines the application process for industrial licenses and all necessary permits.
Initial Compliance Setup: Providing guidance on foundational compliance requirements, including initial environmental assessments, health and safety protocols, and setting up basic quality control frameworks to meet regulatory standards.

Step 4: Obtaining Licenses and Regulatory Approvals

This is a multi-layered process, involving several governmental bodies.

Industrial License: This is the primary license for manufacturing. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland companies or the relevant free zone authority for companies within industrial free zones.
Environmental Permits: Critical for manufacturing plants. You will need approvals from Dubai Municipality’s Environmental Department (or the environmental authority of the relevant free zone). This often involves an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for certain industries and ongoing monitoring of waste management, emissions, and resource consumption.
Civil Defense Approval: Mandatory for fire safety and emergency preparedness. Your factory layout and safety systems must comply with Dubai Civil Defense regulations.
Product-Specific Approvals/Certifications:
- ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology): For product quality, standardization, and certification. Many products require ESMA certification for local sale and export.
- Food Safety Department (Dubai Municipality): If manufacturing food and beverage products.
- Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP): For pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing.
- Other Ministries/Authorities: Depending on the nature of your product (e.g., Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology – MoIAT for industrial policies).
Building Permits: From Dubai Municipality for constructing or modifying your factory premises.
Trade Name and Legal Structure Registration: Formal registration of your company name and legal entity.

Step 5: Securing Industrial Land/Premises and Infrastructure Setup

A manufacturing plant requires suitable physical space and robust infrastructure.

Location Selection: Based on your feasibility study, choose an industrial plot or ready-made warehouse in a suitable industrial zone (e.g., JAFZA, Dubai Industrial City offers large land plots, flexible warehouse options).
Lease/Purchase Agreement: Secure a long-term lease or purchase agreement for the industrial land or facility.
Factory Design & Construction/Fit-out: Design your factory layout, production lines, warehousing, and administrative areas. Oversee construction or fit-out to ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and operational standards.
Utilities Connection: Arrange for reliable and sufficient electricity, water, gas (if needed), and telecommunications connections from relevant authorities (e.g., DEWA).
Machinery Procurement & Installation: Purchase, import, and install your manufacturing machinery and equipment. This involves significant capital outlay and logistical planning.
IT Infrastructure: Set up robust IT systems, including network infrastructure, production management software (e.g., ERP, MES), and cybersecurity measures.

Step 6: Workforce Recruitment and Management

A manufacturing plant relies heavily on a skilled and efficient workforce.

Manpower Planning: Determine your staffing needs across production, quality control, engineering, logistics, and administration.
Recruitment: Hire local and expatriate talent. This includes skilled technicians, engineers, quality control specialists, production managers, and general labor.
Visa and Labor Permits: Obtain necessary work permits and residency visas for expatriate employees from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Training: Provide training to your workforce on machinery operation, safety protocols, quality standards, and compliance procedures.
Accommodation: Consider providing labor accommodation, especially in industrial zones, or ensuring access to suitable housing for your workforce.
Health and Safety: Implement comprehensive health and safety policies and procedures in accordance with UAE labor laws and international best practices.

Step 7: Capital Investment and Fundraising

Starting a manufacturing plant is typically capital-intensive, requiring substantial investment in land, building, machinery, and initial operations.

How Aviaan Accounting Can Help with Fundraising:

Aviaan offers specialized Startup Fundraising Services tailored to the unique financial demands of establishing a manufacturing plant in Dubai.

Investor-Ready Documentation: They assist in crafting compelling and data-driven documents crucial for attracting capital:
- Detailed Financial Models: Building sophisticated financial models that accurately reflect the significant CAPEX (capital expenditure) for land, factory construction/renovation, and heavy machinery, along with precise OPEX (operational expenditure) for raw materials, utilities, specialized labor, and ongoing maintenance. These models provide robust projections for production volumes, sales forecasts, cost of goods sold (COGS), gross margins, profitability analysis, and comprehensive cash flow statements, which are vital for a manufacturing business. They will also conduct sensitivity analysis to demonstrate the financial resilience of your plant under various scenarios (e.g., raw material price fluctuations, changes in energy costs, production efficiency gains, market demand shifts).
- Comprehensive Business Plans: Developing well-structured and investor-focused business plans that clearly articulate your manufacturing vision, the market opportunity in the UAE and regional export markets, your detailed production process, supply chain strategy, operational efficiencies, regulatory compliance roadmap (especially for industrial licenses and environmental permits), your experienced management team, and precise funding requirements.
- Compelling Pitch Decks: Designing visually engaging and concise pitch decks that effectively communicate your manufacturing innovation, the problem your product solves, your competitive advantages (including local production, quality, or cost-efficiency), your target markets, operational strategy, and clear, well-supported financial projections to potential investors.
Investor Outreach & Deal Support: While Aviaan does not provide funds directly, they can significantly support your fundraising efforts by:
- Identifying Suitable Investors: Leveraging their network and market intelligence to help you connect with potential investors interested in the manufacturing sector in the UAE. This includes banks (for project finance), private equity firms, family offices, and strategic corporate investors.
- Preparing for Investor Meetings: Coaching you on how to effectively pitch your manufacturing business, articulate your production capabilities, demonstrate your understanding of regulatory requirements, and confidently answer investor due diligence questions related to production scalability, supply chain resilience, and operational risks.
- Term Sheet Evaluation: Providing expert financial and strategic advice during term sheet negotiations, ensuring you understand the implications of investment terms, valuation, and investor rights, crucial for securing long-term capital for your plant.
Virtual CFO Services: Post-funding, Aviaan can provide ongoing Virtual CFO services, offering strategic financial guidance, managing budgeting and forecasting (critical for managing fluctuating production costs), optimizing cash flow (essential for capital-intensive operations), ensuring regulatory financial reporting compliance (including corporate tax and VAT), and supporting investor relations, building trust and preparing you for future expansion.

Step 8: Supply Chain Management and Logistics

Efficient supply chain and logistics are the backbone of a successful manufacturing plant.

Raw Material Sourcing: Establish reliable relationships with local and international suppliers for your raw materials and components.
Inventory Management: Implement robust inventory management systems to optimize stock levels, minimize waste, and ensure continuous production.
Warehousing: Utilize or develop adequate warehousing facilities for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods, ideally within your chosen industrial zone for efficiency.
Logistics & Distribution: Develop an efficient logistics and distribution network for both inbound raw materials and outbound finished products, leveraging Dubai’s world-class port and airport infrastructure.
Customs Clearance: Ensure smooth customs clearance processes for imported raw materials and exported finished goods.

Step 9: Marketing, Sales, and Distribution

Once production begins, reaching your target market is paramount.

Branding & Marketing: Develop a strong brand identity for your manufactured products and a comprehensive marketing strategy to reach your target audience.
Sales Channels: Establish effective sales channels, whether direct sales, distributors, retailers, or e-commerce platforms.
Export Strategy: If targeting international markets, develop a clear export strategy, identifying key markets, distribution partners, and compliance with international trade regulations.
Customer Service: Build a robust customer service function to handle inquiries, feedback, and post-sales support.
Quality Assurance: Emphasize the quality and reliability of your products through certifications and consistent quality control processes.

Step 10: Ongoing Compliance, Quality Control, and Innovation

Maintaining operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and a commitment to continuous improvement are key to long-term success.

Regulatory Compliance: Continuously adhere to all applicable regulations from the DED/Free Zone Authority, Dubai Municipality (environmental), Civil Defense, ESMA, and other relevant bodies.
Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality control systems throughout the production process to ensure your products meet specified standards and customer expectations. Obtain relevant ISO certifications (e.g., ISO 9001 for Quality Management).
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE): Maintain strict adherence to HSE standards to ensure a safe working environment and minimize environmental impact. Conduct regular audits and risk assessments.
Waste Management: Implement efficient waste management systems, including waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal of industrial waste, in compliance with environmental regulations.
Innovation & R&D: Invest in research and development to improve existing products, develop new ones, and adopt advanced manufacturing technologies (e.g., automation, AI, 3D printing) to stay competitive.
Sustainable Practices: Explore and implement sustainable manufacturing practices, including energy efficiency, water conservation, and use of eco-friendly materials, aligning with Dubai’s green initiatives.
Financial Reporting & Audit: Ensure accurate financial record-keeping, regular internal and external audits, and timely submission of VAT and Corporate Tax returns.

Beyond the Production Line: Key Considerations for Manufacturing in Dubai

Local Content and Value Addition: Explore opportunities to source raw materials locally or add significant value within the UAE to potentially benefit from government incentives and “Made in UAE” branding.
Skilled Labor Development: Consider training programs and partnerships with local educational institutions to develop a skilled Emirati workforce for the manufacturing sector, aligning with nationalization goals.
Smart Manufacturing (Industry 4.0): Embrace automation, data analytics, IoT, and AI to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality in your plant.
Logistics Hub Utilization: Maximize the benefits of Dubai’s logistics capabilities, such as bonded warehouses, cross-docking facilities, and multimodal transport options, to optimize your supply chain.
Export Focus: While the local market is robust, leverage Dubai’s connectivity to prioritize export markets, particularly across the MEASA region, to achieve economies of scale.
Customs and Trade Agreements: Understand customs duties, free trade agreements, and bilateral investment treaties that can impact your import and export costs and market access.

Conclusion

Starting a manufacturing plant business in Dubai, UAE, represents a strategic move into one of the world’s most dynamic and forward-looking industrial landscapes. The emirate’s unwavering commitment to industrial growth, coupled with its world-class infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and strategic global connectivity, offers an unparalleled environment for production. While the undertaking demands significant capital investment, meticulous planning, and adherence to stringent regulatory standards, the potential for establishing a profitable and globally competitive manufacturing operation is immense.

Aviaan Accounting stands as your dedicated partner in navigating the complexities of launching and scaling your manufacturing plant in Dubai. Their expertise transcends traditional accounting, providing comprehensive business advisory support tailored to the unique demands of the industrial sector. From meticulously guiding you through the intricacies of company formation within the optimal industrial free zone or mainland jurisdiction, and ensuring the acquisition of specialized industrial licenses and critical environmental and safety approvals, to conducting rigorous feasibility studies that validate your production capabilities and market demand, providing crucial insights from market research to identify supply chain efficiencies and target markets, and diligently preparing your venture for fundraising to secure the substantial capital required for machinery and operations, Aviaan provides the critical financial and strategic backbone for your manufacturing success in Dubai.

By leveraging Aviaan’s profound understanding of the UAE’s industrial policies, their experience with free zone regulations, and their proven track record in financial advisory and corporate services, you can confidently lay the foundation for your manufacturing plant, optimize your production processes, and contribute to Dubai’s ambitious industrial vision.

Ready to build your manufacturing legacy in Dubai? Contact Aviaan Accounting today for a consultation and take the first decisive step towards forging your future in the heart of the UAE’s industrial renaissance.