Building resilience through diversification
How UAE-based manufacturers such as Union Copper Rod are aligning with national priorities to drive competitiveness in a fast-evolving global market
As manufacturers across the GCC respond to ongoing global uncertainty, including trade disruptions, rising costs and tighter financial conditions, many are rethinking their operations to build long-term resilience.
Supply chain delays and price volatility have highlighted the need to reduce external dependencies and improve production stability. At the same time, growing environmental expectations and shifts in global trade and technology are influencing how manufacturers plan.
In response, there is a stronger focus on expanding non-oil sector activities, adopting advanced technologies to improve efficiency and integrating more sustainable practices. These changes not only help reduce risk but also support national goals for economic diversification and industrial development.
According to consultancy firm PwC, Abu Dhabi’s non-oil sector grew by 6.6% in 2024. Other GCC economies are forecast to record non-oil GDP growth between 2.1% and 4.5% in 2025. These shifts, supported by fiscal reforms and targeted industrial investment, reflect a broader transition towards a more diversified and stable manufacturing base across the region.
Against this backdrop, companies are focusing on supply chain consolidation, export expansion and localised production strategies to enhance operational continuity.
“Forging strong partnerships with suppliers and customers allowed us to adapt to market demands and consistently deliver quality products,” says Mohammad Salman, general manager at Union Copper Rods (UCR).
