‘Made in Italy’ dominates UAE machinery market as exports reach €161m

Exports of “Made in Italy” processing and packaging machinery to the UAE have skyrocketed, hitting a remarkable €161 million by July 2025.

This surge — a clear endorsement of Italian innovation, precision, and engineering quality, according to UCIMA — cements Italy’s status as the top industrial partner in the region.

The data underscores the UAE’s strong trust in Italian technology:

• Food and beverage processing machinery exports soared by 87.5% over the previous year to €107.3 million, capturing a commanding 35.4% market share.
• Packaging machinery exports jumped by 58.3% year-on-year to €53.7 million, securing the lead with a 34.7% market share.

The substantial €161 million total reflects the Gulf’s critical shift toward advanced, high-performance technology that supports the UAE’s strategic goals for manufacturing diversification and food security.

The dominance of Italian engineering will be physically manifested at Gulfood Manufacturing 2025 (Dubai World Trade Centre, 4–6 November). Italy will field one of the largest international contingents, with 252 Italian companies participating.

The Italian Trade Agency (ITA), in partnership with UCIMA and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will host a dedicated Italian Lounge. This hub is designed to connect regional manufacturers and investors directly with the next-generation “Made in Italy” solutions that are redefining industry standards for productivity, sustainability, and digital transformation.

The core appeal of Italian machinery lies in its intrinsic quality. Italian engineering is synonymous with precision, durability, and operational excellence, making it the ideal engine for the UAE’s rapidly expanding food manufacturing sector, which is projected to more than double in value to (USD) $52.76 billion in the coming years.

Valerio Soldani, trade commissioner for the Italian Trade Agency – Dubai, affirmed this market confidence: “Our Food Processing and Packaging machinery exports have grown strongly…reflecting the market’s trust in Italian quality, precision and sustainability. Italian innovation will remain a defining force in enhancing production efficiency and competitiveness across the Gulf.”

Lorenzo Fanara, ambassador of Italy to the UAE, added: “Italian technology perfectly aligns with the UAE’s pursuit of innovation, sustainability, and high-performance manufacturing.”