In a bold step to advance the UAE’s export ambitions, the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX) and Emirates Development Bank (EDB) have announced a strategic partnership to provide AED 1 billion in export financing. Revealed during the “Make it in the Emirates” forum, the deal aims to support local manufacturers and fuel the country’s non-oil economic growth.
This landmark agreement was formalised in the presence of H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and H.E. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD). It was signed by H.E. Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, and Khalil Fadel Al Mansoori, Executive Director of ADEX.
By joining forces, ADEX and EDB will strengthen the UAE’s position as a manufacturing and export hub. Their combined efforts will help private-sector firms access global markets while boosting production capacity and accelerating the shift toward advanced technologies.
Strategic Financing to Support UAE-Based Manufacturers
Exclusively designed for UAE-based private companies, the AED 1 billion fund will provide export-focused manufacturers with capital support. The initiative targets firms in the industrial sector that either generate export revenues or have clear export potential. By focusing on this group, the program helps unlock new global trade opportunities and drive non-oil growth.
The financing will also promote capital investments, enabling businesses to scale their operations and strengthen their international presence. With this step, the UAE government further reinforces its commitment to industrial transformation and economic resilience.
Commenting on the agreement, H.E. Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi said:
“This partnership with ADEX gives UAE manufacturers with export ambitions the scale, certainty, and strategic backing they need to grow beyond borders. At EDB, we’ve already committed more than AED 18.7 billion in financing since 2021. That has catalysed AED 64 billion in capital expenditure and supported over 32,000 industrial jobs. This agreement builds on that momentum. It strengthens our role as a national enabler of sustainable industrial growth and supports export-ready businesses shaping the UAE’s next economic chapter.”
Collaborative Vision to Boost Trade and Innovation
The partnership combines ADEX’s export finance expertise with EDB’s industrial reach. Together, the institutions will offer tailored financial tools to help businesses navigate new markets with confidence and competitiveness.
Khalil Fadel Al Mansoori, Executive Director of ADEX, underscored the significance of this collaboration:
“Our vision at ADEX has always been to position the UAE as a trusted and competitive global trade partner. This collaboration with EDB supports that goal directly. It empowers UAE exporters with the financing they need to access new markets and scale their operations. We are grateful for EDB’s partnership. This initiative reflects how far the UAE has come as an exporting nation, with government entities working in harmony to build a diversified and resilient economy.”
Ultimately, this agreement marks a vital step toward advancing the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology. It not only supports export-led growth but also strengthens the country’s appeal as a regional and global trade hub for advanced industries.
