• Technology

Minister of Industry & Advanced Technology Inaugurates ‘Standard Turf’ Factory and Visits ‘Rabdan’ Vehicle Facility

by Swati Gupta

October 9, 2023 20

Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, marked significant developments in the UAE’s industrial sector as he inaugurated Standard Carpets Industries’ new factory, ‘Standard Turf,’ located in Dubai Industrial City. As part of his visit, he also toured NWTN, a car assembly facility producing the Emirati car brand, Rabdan, located in the Khalifa Economic Zones in Abu Dhabi (KEZAD).

Standard Carpets Industries is renowned as one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of carpets, rugs, and artificial grass, and this expansion marks a substantial step forward for the company.

Inaugurating the ‘Standard Turf’ factory, Dr. Al Jaber highlighted the pivotal role played by the UAE’s industrial sector in diversifying the national economy and fostering sustainable development. He emphasized the country’s advanced infrastructure and tech-enabled environment, which enhances growth opportunities for industries and boosts competitiveness.

Dr. Al Jaber stated, “The ministry plays a strategic role in enhancing the growth and development of the national industrial sector, supporting it to adopt 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) solutions in line with the objectives of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology. We are committed to conducting field visits to organizations and facilities operating in the sector to enhance partnerships and cooperation.”

He stressed the importance of industrial cities and zones, which provide advanced infrastructure, integrated solutions, and logistics support to local manufacturers, companies, and investors. These zones also attract foreign capital, fostering local manufacturing and economic growth.

The inauguration of the ‘Standard Turf’ factory in Dubai Industrial City serves as a testament to the Ministry’s efforts to promote the growth and development of the national industrial sector, along with boosting local investment. The company’s plans to invest AED 600 million in expanding its operations further demonstrate the success of these efforts.

Dr. Al Jaber’s visit to the NWTN facility, which manufactures Rabdan cars, showcased the use of technological solutions in car manufacturing to keep pace with the UAE’s evolving transport sector. These technologies contribute to reducing emissions, achieving net-zero goals, and providing a competitive edge in local and regional markets.

Rashed Alblooshi, Undersecretary at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), highlighted the importance of NWTN in diversifying Abu Dhabi’s economy, creating high-skilled job opportunities, and supporting the advanced-tech manufacturing sector.

Al Zaabi added, “Through strategic partnerships, we are creating new opportunities for cooperation, which will further enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for talents, manufacturers, businesses, and investments.”

During the visit, Dr. Al Jaber and the delegation learned about the Rabdan 1, a multi-use sports car with all-wheel drive technology. The car boasts a maximum range of 860 kilometers while saving energy and reducing emissions. Using a dual-motor system, it produces a total power of 684 horsepower and 1040 Nm torque, with an acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers in just 4.5 seconds.

These visits are part of Dr. Al Jaber’s commitment to follow up on the development in the industrial sector and attract investors to leverage the UAE’s competitive advantages. The UAE offers an attractive business environment, incentives, and enablers, promoting ease of doing business as part of the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative. These efforts aim to enhance the role of the private sector, foster partnerships, and support the growth of companies and institutions, contributing to the country’s sustainable development and global competitiveness.