MoIAT launches Factory Forward UAE to accelerate industrial technology adoption
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology has unveiled Factory Forward UAE, a national platform that consolidates industrial technology transformation programmes to boost 4IR uptake across more than 700 factories.
Factory Forward UAE unifies support for manufacturers to adopt Fourth Industrial Revolution tools
Abu Dhabi, 14th September 2026 — The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) today launched Factory Forward UAE, a national initiative designed to bring the country’s industrial technology transformation programmes together under a single platform.
The initiative aims to accelerate the use of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies across UAE factories, helping manufacturers respond more quickly to change, raise productivity and improve competitiveness. Factory Forward UAE is intended to reinforce the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology and the Make it in the Emirates agenda, and to help position the UAE as a global centre for advanced industry and investment.
Factory Forward UAE will guide manufacturers through their technology journeys by helping them identify the right technologies, recognise improvement opportunities and connect with technical experts, technology providers and existing support schemes. Financing partners have also been enlisted to help access the funding necessary to begin or expand technology projects.
The platform will showcase real-world examples of successful factory transformations and practical uses of technology, enabling manufacturers to learn from peers and select appropriate solutions to enhance operations and efficiency. MoIAT said the initiative consolidates programmes that have already assisted more than 700 factories, including over 620 assessments performed using the Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI).
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, said the initiative advances the aims of national industrial strategy by investing in people, improving skills and integrating technology across value chains. He highlighted a focus on helping factories adopt advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to increase productivity and compete more effectively in local and international markets.
Factory Forward UAE will operate with a network of public and private partners. Technology partners will assess current capabilities and recommend next steps; enablement partners will provide specialist advice, training and knowledge; and financing partners will support access to capital. MoIAT said bringing these elements together will support manufacturers at every stage of their transformation, strengthen supply chains and help grow high-value national industries.
The initiative underscores the federal ministry’s commitment to accelerating technology adoption within the UAE industrial base, building on existing programmes and expanding reach to more manufacturers across the country.
Source: WAM