Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), a key component of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, has announced a series of initiatives aimed at supporting investors and propelling growth in the emirate's industrial sector. These efforts are focused on enhancing the sector's competitiveness on both a regional and global scale.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announced initiatives include extending the validity of new industrial licences, known as 'Rowad', from two to three years before the commencement of the construction phase. Additionally, licences categorized as 'under construction' will see an extension from three to four years until production begins. These measures are designed to offer greater flexibility for investors during the foundational stages of their projects.
During the 5th session of Make it in the Emirates, Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, highlighted the robust growth within Abu Dhabi's industrial sector. He attributed this expansion to the effectiveness of proactive policies and regulations aimed at stimulating industrial growth, a key element of the emirate's strategy for economic acceleration and diversification. Al Mazrouei emphasized ADRA's commitment to simplifying procedures and providing advisory services to facilitate investment in Abu Dhabi's economy, underscoring the initiatives as a result of constructive dialogue with investors and comprehensive studies.
The extension of Rowad licences allows entrepreneurs additional time for planning and executing their industrial projects on sustainable foundations. This change aims to facilitate financial planning, secure funding, and reduce establishment pressures, ultimately supporting local supply chains and enhancing Abu Dhabi's appeal for industrial investments.
Furthermore, extending the 'under construction' licences to four years provides investors with a more flexible timeframe to align their projects with best operational standards, mitigating challenges such as construction delays and financing issues. This initiative is expected to increase project readiness and further strengthen industrial investment in Abu Dhabi.
By the close of 2025, the number of industrial licences in Abu Dhabi had risen to 3,197, a 15 percent increase from 2,784 in 2024. Licences advancing to the construction phase surged by 37 percent to 206, compared to 150 in 2024. Additionally, the number of new industrial establishments reaching full operation grew by 53 percent to 115, up from 75 in 2024.
Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori, Director-General of ADRA, stated that these indicators underscore the strength and attractiveness of Abu Dhabi's business sector for industrial investors. He reiterated ADRA's dedication to meeting investors' needs, enhancing licensing and compliance procedures, and attracting both local and international investments to leverage the dynamic economy's opportunities and align with Abu Dhabi's strategic priorities. Al Mansoori emphasized ADRA's ongoing efforts to maintain a business-supportive ecosystem through data-driven strategies and continuous engagement with stakeholders.