UAE Strengthens GCC Industrial Cooperation in Kuwait

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, led the UAE delegation to the 55th session of the GCC Industrial Cooperation Committee and the 10th Ministerial Committee for Standardisation Affairs, held in Kuwait. The meetings gathered GCC ministers of industry and trade to discuss ways to enhance economic integration, improve trade flows, and strengthen industrial cooperation across the Gulf region.

The meetings focused on promoting joint efforts among GCC member states to achieve sustainable economic development. Ministers discussed policies to harmonise industrial standards, improve metrology systems, and develop shared frameworks that make intra-Gulf trade smoother and more efficient. The participants agreed that unified industrial standards and innovation-driven cooperation are vital to maintaining the GCC’s competitive edge in the global economy.

In his address, Dr. Al Jaber conveyed greetings from the UAE’s leadership to their Gulf counterparts and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to building strong regional partnerships. He expressed gratitude to Kuwait for hosting the meetings and recognised the country’s efforts in advancing regional cooperation. Al Jaber emphasised that the UAE continues to focus on deepening investment collaboration, strengthening supply chains, and enhancing industrial competitiveness across the region.

Dr. Al Jaber highlighted that under the guidance of the UAE’s wise leadership, the country is continuously working to develop high-value partnerships and engage the private sector as a key driver of growth. He said, “We are committed to building an advanced and competitive industrial base that benefits all Gulf nations and future generations.” His statement reflected the UAE’s broader strategy to diversify the economy, expand manufacturing capabilities, and promote innovation in industrial sectors.

The UAE delegation also participated in the 4th GCC Entrepreneur Forum, held alongside the committee meetings. The forum discussed challenges and opportunities facing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Gulf market. Participants exchanged ideas on how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools could help SMEs grow and compete regionally. The event encouraged collaboration among Gulf entrepreneurs to develop innovative and technology-based businesses that can drive future economic expansion.

A major highlight of the meetings was the launch of the Gulf Industrial Platform, a unified digital platform that connects industrial projects across GCC countries. The platform aims to enhance coordination, transparency, and data sharing among Gulf industries, making it easier to identify investment opportunities, support joint ventures, and streamline trade processes. The UAE delegation welcomed the initiative as a key step toward creating a more integrated industrial ecosystem in the region.

At the 3rd Gulf Industrial Exhibition, the UAE presented five remarkable industrial achievements that demonstrate its leadership in innovation and sustainability. Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) showcased its world-class smelting technologies that lower emissions and strengthen the UAE’s global reputation in aluminium production. Nutridor Dairy Company highlighted its automation and solar-powered operations, reducing carbon emissions by more than 8,000 tonnes annually.

Lootah Biofuel featured its pioneering initiative as the first Gulf company to convert used cooking oil into sustainable aviation fuel, contributing to both the circular economy and the UAE’s climate neutrality goals. Future Pipe Industries shared its innovative solutions for clean energy and infrastructure, while Desert Board displayed its eco-friendly technology that transforms palm fronds into sustainable wooden boards — a world-first achievement that underscores the UAE’s leadership in green industrial transformation.

Three UAE companies — Emirates Global Aluminium, Lootah Biofuel, and Desert Board — were honoured with the GCC Industrial Excellence Award. This recognition celebrates the UAE’s outstanding achievements in advancing industrial innovation and sustainability across the Gulf region. The awards highlight the nation’s ability to combine technological advancement with environmental responsibility, reinforcing its position as a model for modern industrial progress.

The success of the UAE delegation’s participation reflects the country’s strategic role in shaping GCC industrial policies and supporting sustainable economic integration. Dr. Al Jaber reiterated that the UAE remains dedicated to building partnerships that foster innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth. He also emphasised the importance of aligning industrial policies with climate action goals and global development trends to ensure long-term prosperity for the region.

The GCC meetings in Kuwait marked a significant step forward in regional industrial cooperation. The UAE’s active participation demonstrated its leadership in promoting collaboration, sustainability, and innovation across the Gulf. By supporting entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and circular economy initiatives, the UAE continues to help shape a resilient and future-ready industrial landscape for the GCC.