Emirates Development Bank Drives UAE's Industrial Growth

May 19, 2026

97 min

May 19, 2026 13:31

Banking on the Future: Ahmed Al Naqbi, EDB CEO on powering the UAE’s industrial transformation

## EDB's Strategic Role

Emirates Development Bank (EDB) is pivotal in the UAE's shift towards a diversified economy. Led by CEO Ahmed Al Naqbi, EDB focuses on financing innovation and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to foster industrial growth and resilience.

## Key Sectors and Initiatives

EDB targets five priority sectors: manufacturing, food security, advanced technology, renewable energy, and healthcare. The bank provides significant daily financing to ensure liquidity and attract commercial capital by initially taking on project risks. Over the past five years, EDB has contributed to 30% of industrial lending growth, mobilizing over AED 75 billion.

## Alignment with National Vision

EDB aligns with the UAE's Operation 300bn, aiming to boost the industrial sector's GDP contribution. The bank directs capital into sustainable and innovative areas, supporting local manufacturers and creating jobs. Since 2021, EDB's financing has added Dh11.3 billion to the non-oil GDP and created over 41,000 jobs.

## Programs Supporting Local Industries

EDB has launched several initiatives, including the National Industrial Resilience Fund and the ADEX Export Financing Framework, to support local industries and enhance export readiness. The bank also partners with Dubai Industrial City and supports the food security sector through the AgriTech Loans Program.

## Empowering SMEs and Entrepreneurs

In 2025, EDB provided Dh3.8 billion in SME financing. The bank offers various support mechanisms, such as the Credit Guarantee Scheme and the EDB 360 Digital Banking App, to facilitate access to capital and streamline financial processes for entrepreneurs.

## Challenges and Solutions

SMEs face challenges like working capital constraints and slow fund access. EDB addresses these through programs like Zelo Supply Chain Finance, which accelerates invoice payments, and the EDB 360 app for quick loan applications.

## Future Plans

EDB plans to support 13,500 companies with AED 30 billion by 2026, focusing on national priority sectors. Under Al Naqbi's leadership, the bank continues to develop strategies that drive investment and economic impact across the UAE.

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