By Prof Bill Micheal
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has concluded a high-level working visit to Japan, strengthening bilateral cooperation in industry, advanced technology, and artificial intelligence. The delegation, led by H.E. Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Undersecretary of the Ministry, held discussions and engagements in Tokyo and Kyoto focused on translating scientific innovation into practical industrial solutions.
The visit featured participation in the UAE–Japan Technology and Artificial Intelligence Roundtable in Tokyo and the 23rd Science and Technology in Society Forum Ministerial Roundtable in Kyoto. These sessions brought together officials and representatives from the public and private sectors of both countries. Discussions centered on expanding industrial partnerships, accelerating the adoption of AI, robotics, automation, digital manufacturing, and precision manufacturing, and better aligning research outcomes with the needs of the industrial sector.
MoIAT emphasized the importance of converting innovation into tangible gains in factory productivity, quality, and sustainability. The ministry highlighted the role of the Factory Forward UAE initiative (also referenced in connection with broader Factories of the Future efforts) as a unified platform that connects technology providers with manufacturers. This platform builds on existing programs that have already supported hundreds of factories and aims to broaden Industry 4.0 adoption across the UAE’s industrial base.
Speaking during the visit, H.E. Hasan Jasem Al Nowais underscored the strength of the UAE–Japan economic relationship. “The UAE–Japan economic relationship is a long-standing partnership built on broad cooperation across many sectors. This partnership offers significant opportunities to deepen industrial and technological collaboration, exchange expertise, foster innovation and enhance industrial competitiveness,” he said. He also stressed the value of direct partnerships for pilot projects, including AI-powered quality inspection and predictive maintenance, alongside skills development.
The visit concluded with an invitation to Japanese companies, investors, and industrial leaders to participate in the sixth edition of “Make it in the Emirates”, scheduled for 3–6 May 2027 in Abu Dhabi. The flagship platform, part of the UAE’s Operation 300bn strategy to expand the industrial sector’s contribution to GDP, has grown significantly in recent years. The 2026 edition drew over 146,000 visitors and more than 1,200 exhibitors while generating substantial offtake commitments and investment announcements.
H.E. Al Nowais, who was appointed Undersecretary by Federal Decree in late 2025, brings extensive leadership experience from roles including Chairman of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and senior positions at Mubadala and M42. The Japan visit continues MoIAT’s efforts to position the UAE as a hub for advanced manufacturing and technology-driven industrial growth, leveraging international partnerships and the country’s network of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements.
By inviting Japanese partners to the 2027 event, the ministry aims to turn high-level discussions into concrete collaborations that support industrial competitiveness, supply-chain resilience, and sustainable economic development in both countries.
