The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology signed a memorandum of understanding with PepsiCo to expand the UAE’s Future Industries Lab, supporting SMEs and providing young Emiratis with practical industrial experience. Moreover, the agreement strengthens efforts to develop national talent and enhance industrial capabilities.
The MoU was signed during the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates. Additionally, it marks PepsiCo as the first food and beverage company to join the initiative, reflecting wider private sector engagement in the programme.
The collaboration supports the ministry’s objectives of empowering SMEs and providing industry-focused learning opportunities. As a result, participants will gain structured exposure to real operational environments and business functions.
Industry Exposure for Emirati Talent
Under the agreement, PepsiCo will offer participants experience across multiple areas of its UAE operations, including brand building, supply chain management, sustainability, and finance. Additionally, participants will visit the facilities of PepsiCo’s bottling partner, Dubai Refreshment Company, to gain direct insight into manufacturing and operational processes.
Hassan Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, stressed the importance of partnerships with leading companies operating in the UAE in supporting the “Operation 300Bn” including the partnership with PepsiCo, aimed at expanding the scope of the Future Industries Lab initiative.
Wael Ismail, Vice President of Corporate Affairs for International Beverages, PepsiCo, said: “Joining the Future Industries Lab gives us the opportunity to work more closely with young Emiratis and SMEs that will shape the future of industry in the UAE. PepsiCo has been part of the UAE for sixty years, and we have seen firsthand how much can happen when government and business work together with a long-term mindset. Through the Future Industries Lab, we hope participants leave with a real understanding of how industry operates day to day, and with confidence in the opportunities the sector can offer them.”
Expanding the Future Industries Lab Network
Through its participation, PepsiCo joins a wider network of companies across multiple sectors contributing technical and industrial training. Moreover, the Future Industries Lab continues to provide support in key areas such as operations, quality, supply chains, and market access.
