UAE opens AED 1bn industrial fund with 0% interest loans

Emirates Development Bank (EDB) has opened applications for the National Industrial Resilience Fund, a AED 1 billion programme for manufacturers based in the UAE, according to Arabian Business on 5 November 2026. The bank is running the fund together with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.

What the fund offers

The financing carries zero per cent interest until the end of the programme, with an annual service fee of 0.75%, Arabian Business reported. Each corporate group can receive up to AED 100 million. For capital expenditure, the fund can cover up to 80% of eligible project costs.

The money can go towards new factories, production lines, machinery, plant expansions and integrated manufacturing projects. It can also support strategic inventory, supplier payments and working capital. The programme is set to run for five years.

Who can apply

Both new and established manufacturers can apply through EDB's online portal, subject to the fund's conditions and the bank's own credit assessment. Priority goes to projects that localise critical industries, replace imports or strengthen domestic supply chains. Eligible products come from an approved list that includes pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and food production and processing, and a joint governance committee can add other critical industries.

Background

The UAE Cabinet set up the fund in April 2026. The National reported at the time that Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced it as part of a package aimed at industrial diversification. That package named food security, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, advanced technology and construction among the national priorities. The fund sits within the UAE's National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology and the Make it in the Emirates programme.

What it means for businesses

Manufacturers planning a new plant or an expansion in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE may find the fund relevant if their products are on the approved list. Applications are assessed individually, so approval is not automatic. Companies should check the eligible product list and the fund conditions on EDB's portal before preparing an application.