An AED 1 bn export financing framework, more food supply localization, and UAE energy back on the int’l radar

EBD, ADEX launch AED 1 bn export financing framework

The UAE is backing its export ambitions with real funds. Emirates Development Bank (EDB) and Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX) have signed an agreement to set up a unified export financing framework worth up to AED 1 bn for UAE manufacturers, with an initial AED 367 mn already deployed, according to a press release.

The goal: The facility is aimed at giving local producers, including SMEs, access to working capital and short-term liquidity so they can actually compete abroad. It is designed to support export readiness across sectors the UAE is betting on, including advanced manufacturing, food security, healthcare and renewable energy.

No need to worry about tomato supply, it’s going local

UNS Vertical Farms has opened a 10k sqm facility in Al Ain set to produce 150k kg of tomatoes annually, according to a press release. The move adds local supply at a time when retailers and F&B players remain exposed to import disruptions.

The pitch is really about reliability: The farm promises 24-48 hour delivery from harvest, pesticide-free produce, and up to 90% lower water use, effectively trading import volatility for shorter lead times and lower spoilage across retail and HORECA supply chains.

As we previously reported, policymakers are also pushing for localization from the demand side: A new initiative targets 25% local sourcing across hospitality, a notable shift in a market that still imports 80-90% of its food.

UAE energy back on the radar

Global equity research firm Bernstein is putting a fresh buy call on the UAE’s energy story, initiating coverage of the MENA sector and flagging sovereign backing and predictable cashflows as key differentiators, Wam reports. It names Adnoc Gas and Fertiglobe as “best picks,” with outperform ratings and between 20-25% implied upside.

The case: Adnoc Gas offers contracted, quasi-regulated cashflows tied to domestic supply and LNG sales, while Fertiglobe benefits from low-cost feedstock and exposure to tight nitrogen markets. Both are seen by Bernstein as “quality at a discount,” underpinned by a system that turns state assets into investable platforms.