The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has outlined new strategies to reinforce Al Ain’s position as a key driver of economic growth and diversification during a high-level workshop titled “Al Ain Horizons Towards the Future 2026.”
The event brought together senior representatives from government entities, investors, and private sector partners to align development priorities, identify strategic projects, and enhance collaboration across sectors. Discussions centred on strengthening Al Ain’s business and investment ecosystem, boosting public-private partnerships, and fostering talent development to support sustainable, long-term growth.
Key areas of focus included smart agriculture, cultural tourism, entrepreneurship, and innovation, as well as initiatives to empower productive families and enhance Al Ain’s reputation as the region’s leading desert oasis destination. The workshop also addressed plans to attract further non-oil investments and create an integrated roadmap for future development.
His Excellency Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of ADDED, said Al Ain plays an essential role in sustaining Abu Dhabi’s diversified economy. “With competitive advantage in various sectors including agriculture, higher education, tourism, and advanced manufacturing, the region continues to drive sustainable growth across multiple sectors. By bringing together government entities, investors, and entrepreneurs, we are developing more collaborative initiatives in line with our shared priorities to create measurable outcomes, by creating new jobs, expanding opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life.”
He added that Al Ain has already attracted more than AED128.5 billion (US$35 billion) in non-oil investments across transportation, energy, and manufacturing, underscoring its growing importance to Abu Dhabi’s wider economic vision.
The workshop featured contributions from the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, Al Ain City Municipality, and Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis), among others. Presentations highlighted new investment incentives, funding programmes for entrepreneurs, and workforce development initiatives tailored to Al Ain’s evolving labour market.
ADDED’s Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA) also presented its ongoing efforts to support business growth through simplified licensing, stronger consumer and commercial protection, and a more efficient regulatory environment.
The event reaffirmed ADDED’s commitment to empowering local economies, enabling entrepreneurship, and building a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable future for Al Ain as a key pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030.
