UAE’s Al Khaznah Leathers signs key deals at the Emirates 2026
LW Desk
According to Media reports, Al Khaznah Leathers (AKL), the UAE’s sole integrated and sustainable leather producer, has moved to consolidate its position within the nation’s industrial ecosystem by signing two significant agreements at the Make It in the Emirates 2026 forum. The deals mark a dual-track strategy for the national factory: a push into high-tech automotive manufacturing and a reinforced commitment to cultural preservation.
The first, a Memorandum of Understanding with ROX, targets the burgeoning future mobility sector. The partnership will explore the production of advanced automotive leather solutions, ranging from finished hides to precision-engineered components. This pivot toward the transport sector aligns with broader regional efforts to localise complex supply chains and establish the UAE as a manufacturing hub for the global automotive industry.
Simultaneously, AKL has entered a cooperation agreement with the UAE Ministry of Culture. This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern industrial scale. The partnership will focus on heritage-inspired products and training programmes, ensuring that Emirati leather arts are integrated into contemporary manufacturing practices.
Shamsa Muaid Alahbabi, Managing Director and CEO of Al Khaznah Leathers, noted that the agreements reflect the company's dual role in the economy. "Through our partnership with ROX, we aim to position the UAE as a credible partner in automotive leather solutions, while our cooperation with the Ministry of Culture reinforces our commitment to craftsmanship, identity, and national legacy," she said.
The move represents a significant step for AKL, a facility founded under the vision of the late President Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. By bridging the gap between legacy and localization, AKL is positioning itself as a cornerstone of the UAE’s industrial agenda, proving that traditional materials can meet the rigorous demands of future-facing sectors.
