Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Women have been making a mark in the UAE's industrial landscape - and, with the support of the government, some have started their own ventures, built their facilities, and now on their way to global success.
At this year's Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) forum, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development showcases more than 15 innovative Emirati-led projects, including those led by female entrepreneurs.
Among them is Khadija Al Ameri, who has established a UAE-made keto chocolate brand called ingfit.
The idea, she said, was to produce a healthy, tasty treat that is "sugar-free, diabetic-friendly, and made with clean ingredients that reflect the UAE's commitment to quality and innovation".
"We produce locally, use responsible packaging, and reduce reliance on imports-all while promoting healthier lifestyles," Al Ameri told Aletihad.
With support from Khalifa Fund, Al Ameri was able secure a certified factory partner in Dubai and navigate regulatory challenges, she said.
"We aim to lead the UAE's healthy chocolate segment and contribute to national goals for economic diversification and industrial innovation," she added.
With her participation in MIITE, she now hopes to find partners that will help the brand grow beyond the UAE.
Manufacturing Bakery Equipment
Another entrepreneur, Khadija Abdullah, has built a factory that now produces high-quality bakery tools and equipment - from ovens, dough sheeters and bread cutters to automated systems tailored to their clients' needs.
"We are the first UAE and Gulf-based factory in this sector. Our designs are tailored for local needs and built entirely in the UAE using high-quality materials and Emirati talent," said Abdullah, who founded the Bawabat Al Sharq Factory with the backing of Khalifa Fund.
She admitted that the starting the venture wasn't easy, adding that financing and technology access were among the major hurdles. With Khalifa Fund's support, however, Bawabat Al Sharq Factory was able to move forward.
Now, the company seeks to "expand its exports, build technical partnerships, and showcase what 'Made in the UAE' truly means", Abdullah said.
Through the solutions they create, they seek to help boost food security while supporting the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based industrial economy.
Making Furniture
Widad Alhammadi, an entrepreneur in the furniture and interior design sector, makes sure her work reflects the UAE identity.
Widad Al Hammadi Furniture & Decoration, a full-service interior design firm, offers environmentally responsible design solutions that blend with modern trends and cultural authenticity.
"Everything is manufactured here - not just assembled. We use quality materials and Emirati-inspired designs," Alhammadi said.
Her approach goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on sustainability and local innovation.
"We develop raw materials from our environment and use them in furniture-making. This reduces import reliance and supports the national economy."
Alhammadi currently collaborates with factories to deliver her designs but she has big plans for the future.
"I aim to move into direct manufacturing-to gain more control, respond faster to market needs, and deepen my impact on local industry," she said.
Highlighting the crucial role Khalifa Fund played in the growth of her company, Alhammadi said: "They helped us join exhibitions at discounted rates and supported us with letters that secured fee
exemptions on government projects-boosting our market presence and competitiveness."
In the long run, Alhammadi aims to "create a fully integrated design and manufacturing business that honours Emirati identity - and reaches global markets".
