The Middle East Industry

Industrial activity is on the rise in Abu Dhabi as the emirate’s drive towards sustainable economic diversification under Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 gathers pace. The recently opened Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi is likely to be a key engine of growth for the emirate, while a recent multi-billion dollar merger between the UAE’s two aluminium manufacturers is also set to bolster plans for industrial expansion.

New investments in Oman’s agro-industries will not only help bolster the Sultanate’s food security and ease reliance on imports, but also have the capacity to provide increased business opportunities in food processing and support services.

With the industrial sector looking to post positive growth in 2013 on the back of increased regional demand, steps are being taken to boost the supply of space for manufacturing activities.

The Turkish government is hoping talks aimed at ending the long-running conflict with Kurdish separatists will bring not only peace to the east and south-east of the country but also a wave of investments, with the industrial sector tipped to be one of the main beneficiaries.

The spate of large defence contracts recently awarded to Abu Dhabi-based firms, together with the emirate’s growing success in attracting investment for technology, has highlighted the key role earmarked for the industry in the emirate’s long-term plans to diversify its economy.

Having commenced 2013 with a number of new and noteworthy industrial projects in both private and public sectors, Bahrain should be able to continue to diversify its portfolio and expand its industrial base.