Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and Eaton, a global intelligent power management company, have signed an agreement in Dubai to build a new campus for advanced manufacturing and a new R&D facility.
The project seeks to extend Eaton’s research, engineering, and manufacturing capacity and aims to boost Dubai’s capabilities in the advanced manufacturing of electrical and electronic components for power across several industries, including data centres, buildings, and solar energy.
The construction of the facility will begin in 2025 and is expected to be completed in 2026, spanning over 500,000 square feet.
The manufacturing capability will be complemented by a new R&D facility focused on sustainable manufacturing, power management, machine learning, AI, and other related fields.
The project will create approximately 700 jobs, ranging from high-skilled engineering roles to advanced manufacturing positions.
The manufacturing centre will be fully digitally enabled, using automation, analytics, and advanced robotics to enhance production processes.
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, said the partnership with Eaton represents a “significant advancement” in its efforts to develop smart manufacturing facilities in Jafza and directly supports Dubai’s D33 strategy.
“We aim to further strengthen Dubai’s standing as a global leader in high-tech and automated manufacturing. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to generate a substantial impact on the UAE’s economy, contribute towards the transition to sustainable energy and provide valuable opportunities for young Emiratis,” he added.
Craig Arnold, Chairman and CEO of Eaton, added: “Our efforts are pivotal in promoting green and sustainable manufacturing through smart factory initiatives and increasing our R&D capability. This will drive the continued development of Emirati talent, and help our customers and partners achieve a sustainable energy transition.”