The UAE has been actively embracing smart manufacturing to diversify its economy and become a global leader in technological innovation.

At a launch event on 13 June, Ducab revealed its Blade intelligent factory system as part of its plans to integrate new technologies into its production factories and operations and embrace Industry 4.0.

Experts at the event discussed how the new Blade platform and other digital technologies would advance overall business services, including transforming customer efficiencies and experiences and providing intelligent automation and sustainability. 

“Blade will enhance visibility, intelligence and measurability across all aspects,” said Charles Mellagui, CEO of Ducab’s Cable Business. 

“It will empower organisations by seamlessly integrating the physical and digital realms, effectively converging factory operations into a unified ecosystem.

“Previously, factories operated as separate entities, with data analysis conducted separately. However, Blade bridges the gap between these two worlds, enabling real-time data analysis and intelligent decision-making, streamlining operations and maximising efficiency.”

The executive stressed that Blade would benefit Ducab’s customers by optimising operations, enhancing cost performance, ensuring quality delivery, empowering individuals with comprehensive data, and promoting sustainability for responsible manufacturing practices and a more sustainable future.

Intelligent future

Mellagui’s take on the benefits of smart manufacturing was shared by Tamer Hamed, Ducab’s chief information officer.

Speaking about the energy sector solution provider’s upcoming plans, Hamed said, “Our objective is to create a better customer experience, and we are excited to introduce our Vendor Management Inventory (VMI) system to facilitate this.

“Through VMI, we will establish seamless connections with our customers, enabling them to enjoy automatic stock replenishment. By providing intelligent insights, our system will empower them to make informed decisions such as identifying slow-selling products and suggesting profitable additions.”

Hamed added that Blade’s intelligence would be shared with Ducab’s customers to help enhance their experience, reduce lead times and ultimately maximise their margins. 

“We aim to fully integrate our customers into our world, where they can thrive with high-value offerings and achieve profitability,” said Hamed.

With the technology transformation programme, we aim to achieve an annual increase in industrial productivity of AED15bn by 2031
Abdulla Sami AlShamsi, UAE Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology

Also speaking at the event, the assistant undersecretary at the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MoIAT), Abdulla Sami AlShamsi, congratulated Ducab on Blade’s launch and highlighted how the project aligns with the ministry’s national strategy for industry and advanced technology.  

In line with the national industrial strategy, MoIAT fosters an ecosystem driven by advanced technologies and the Fourth Industrial Revolution and supports national companies in their transformation, digitalisation and growth.

“When UAE companies enhance their efficiency, competitiveness and sustainability, it not only benefits the economy but also amplifies the value of locally-made products on the global stage,” said AlShamsi. 

In 2022, MoIAT launched a technology transformation initiative that supported 175 factories and national industrial champions in their technological roadmaps. MoIAT also facilitated nearly $700m in financing for industrial companies to obtain advanced technology solutions through its partnership with Emirates Development Bank. 

“Our goal is a 7 per cent year-on-year increase in advanced technology adoption among national industries. With the technology transformation programme, we aim to achieve an annual increase in industrial productivity of AED15bn by 2031. 

“The industrial technology transformation index, ITTI, will enable companies of all sizes to join the nation’s digital transformation journey. This journey goes beyond productivity and efficiency, elevating the quality and competitiveness of Made in UAE products,” he added.

According to AlShamsi, the launch of the new intelligent factory by Ducab also marks a significant step in Operation 300bn, the National Industrial and Technology Strategy. It aims to elevate the industry’s contribution to both GDP and climate action in parallel.

Integrated solutions

The ministry’s approach to industrialisation in the UAE is defined by its integrated industrial and advanced technology strategy, said Tariq AlHashemi, MoIAT director of technology adoption and development.

“With a focus on smart, responsible and sustainable practices, we are prioritising the incorporation of technology industry 4.0. Our goal is to create a productive and export-oriented industrial sector by strategically utilising advanced technologies,” he added.

Tareq highlighted how the ministry values role models who inspire others through their experiences. “This approach ensures that technological advancements align with business objectives, company KPIs and competitiveness goals, all while avoiding any undue burden on the industry.”

Advanced technologies have emerged as a catalyst for achieving optimal efficiency gains. The benefits of investing in these innovative solutions include cost reductions, increased revenue and enhanced collaboration with manufacturers. 

“For us, efficiency was our primary focus, seeking ways to achieve significant gains in this aspect,” said Atheeqe Ansari, founder and CEO of Electric Way, one of Ducab’s key customers.

“We strategically invested in state-of-the-art warehouse distribution technology and an advanced ERP system. Initially, we were uncertain about the outcome, but what we discovered surpassed our expectations. 

“The pursuit of efficiency resulted in remarkable cost reduction while simultaneously driving an increase in our top-line revenue. This success has become evident to many, as investing in distribution technology has proven highly beneficial for businesses,” said Ansari.

Main image: Abdulla AlShamsi, assistant undersecretary at the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology, speaks at the launch of Ducab’s Blade intelligent factory system on 13 June