In The Spotlight
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest industrial organisation in the United Arab Emirates outside the oil and gas sector, has officially inaugurated the nation’s largest aluminium recycling plant.
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest industrial organisation in the United Arab Emirates outside the oil and gas sector, has officially inaugurated the nation’s largest aluminium recycling plant.
Located in Al Taweelah, this facility represents a vital milestone in EGA’s strategic expansion into low-carbon aluminium production and serves as a boost for the development of the UAE’s circular economy.
The inauguration ceremony welcomed dignitaries including Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, alongside Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD). Also in attendance were EGA’s Chairman Homaid Al Shimmari, Vice Chairman His Excellency Saeed Al Tayer, and various members of EGA’s Board and senior management.
During the event, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak emphasised the broader implications:
“Recycling is the cornerstone of the UAE’s Circular Economy Policy which aims to transform the nation into a global hub for green development by shifting from linear to circular production and consumption, enhancing resource efficiency, and minimising waste. Aluminium represents one of our greatest opportunities to drive this transition from linear to circular model of production. It is infinitely recyclable, protecting our ecosystems while fuelling a sustainable, low-carbon economy. Recycling aluminium waste requires up to 95 per cent less energy compared to producing new primary aluminium from raw ore, saving significant energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
She further added:
“Emirates Global Aluminium has been a pioneer of our nation’s industry for decades, and today, they are leading the charge as our national champion in aluminium recycling. I congratulate EGA on the strategic growth of its recycling business both here in the UAE and globally, proving that industrial leadership and climate action go hand in hand.”
Capacity and Production Details
The Al Taweelah plant has a production capacity of 185,000 tonnes per year. It processes post-consumer and some pre-consumer aluminium scrap, transforming it into low-carbon premium aluminium billets and T-bars, marketed as RevivAL. EGA also blends recycled metal with primary aluminium produced using solar power, marketed as CelestiAL-R, and with nuclear power, sold as MinimAL-R.
Historically, the majority of aluminium scrap generated within the UAE has been exported for processing outside the country. The Al Taweelah facility rectifies this by offering local capacity, positioning EGA as the largest consumer of aluminium scrap in the UAE.
Construction and Operational Timeline
Constructing the plant required four million hours of work, completed with zero injuries requiring time off. The project utilised more than 26,300 cubic metres of concrete—exceeding the volume of ten Olympic-size swimming pools—and over 4,600 metric tonnes of structural steel, equivalent to two-thirds of the iron weight of the Eiffel Tower.
Initial production commenced in February. However, final commissioning was paused following an Iranian attack on Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi on 28 March. Commissioning resumed during April, and recycled cast metal production recommenced in early May. The ramp-up to full production will take up to six months, dependent on scrap availability.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, stated:
“The inauguration of Al Taweelah recycling plant is a major milestone in EGA’s development of a global aluminium recycling business. This new plant turns aluminium waste generated in the UAE and elsewhere into new aluminium that makes modern life possible around the world. With this project, we have added a new industrial activity to EGA’s operations in the UAE, in line with Make it in the Emirates and the UAE’s Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy.”
Global Expansion
The plant is part of EGA’s global ambitions. Including a planned acquisition of an 80 per cent stake in Italian company Eco Green, EGA’s total recycling capacity exceeds 400,000 tonnes per year across the UAE, Europe, and the United States, with an additional 200,000 tonnes under development.
This follows acquisitions in Germany and the United States in 2024. EGA Leichtmetall in Germany is expanding more than six-fold, adding a second plant near Hannover with 150,000 tonnes of capacity, expected during 2028. In Minnesota, EGA Spectro Alloys completed a 65,000 tonnes expansion in 2025 and is developing a second phase to add a further 35,000 tonnes by 2027.
AJi Enters Syrian Market and signs a Strategic Collaboration Agreement with Damascus-based Tala Engineering Consulting and Project Management
AJi has marked its official entry into the Syrian market as the Syrian construction industry steadily gathers momentum and prepares for comprehensive renewal
This strategic move was inaugurated with the company’s high-profile participation in BUILDEX 2026. Recognised as the 24th International Exhibition for Construction, the event was held over five days, from 10 to 14 June 2026 at the Damascus Fairground, Syria. The exhibition served as an ideal platform for AJi to demonstrate its capabilities and establish a robust local presence amidst a receptive regional audience.
Central to AJi’s strategic positioning within the Syrian market is the formalisation of a landmark partnership. During the exhibition, AJi signed a Strategic Collaboration Agreement with Tala Engineering Consulting and Project Management, a highly respected, Damascus-based Syrian consultancy firm. The formal agreement establishes a reliable framework for long-term cooperation between the entities. Their joint objective is to pursue and execute engineering consultancy, design, supervision, and project management opportunities across Syria. The alliance successfully combines AJi’s international expertise with Tala Engineering’s profound local market knowledge and intricate understanding of regional regulatory capabilities.
The scope of this collaborative endeavour is deliberately broad and ambitious, designed to meet the multi-faceted demands of a nation undergoing rapid transformation. The partnership will actively target major opportunities across a diverse range of critical sectors. These include foundational infrastructure, advanced healthcare facilities, modern urban development, hospitality, vital transportation networks, extensive industrial zones, and large-scale public sector projects.
The sheer scale of the opportunity and the necessity for strategic alliances are underscored by macroeconomic data. According to the World Bank’s latest assessment, Syria’s overarching reconstruction needs are estimated at US$216 billion. Within this figure, approximately US$82 billion is required for the restoration and development of essential infrastructure. This includes the revitalisation of critical power grids, the rebuilding of extensive road networks, and the modernisation of water distribution systems. A financial and logistical undertaking of this immense magnitude undeniably calls for highly coordinated, collaborative participation from both international industry leaders and local experts.
Commenting on the significance and vision of the newly forged partnership, Eng. Hamzeh Awwad, CEO of AJi Group, stated: "Syria today is one of the most promising markets in the region, and what is being rebuilt here is more than infrastructure, it is the foundation of urban life for generations to come. At AJi, we believe reconstruction must be done right the first time, sustainably, with liveable, people-centred cities at its heart. No single firm or sector can deliver a national rebuild of this scale alone. All industries from engineering, construction, finance, energy, and technology must come together in support of Syria's reconstruction plan. Our agreement with Tala Engineering reflects exactly that spirit, international expertise and local knowledge working hand in hand to help shape a sustainable future for Syria."
The formal signing of this agreement has occurred at a decidedly pivotal moment for the country's economic trajectory. Following the easing of international sanctions and renewed, proactive engagement from Gulf, European, and global partners, the landscape of the Syrian market is being rapidly reshaped. Large-scale capital projects in transportation, energy production, urban development, and modern industrial zones are emerging swiftly. This influx of activity is driving an accelerating demand for high-level engineering expertise, cutting-edge construction technology, and sophisticated project management capabilities that joint ventures like AJi and Tala Engineering are uniquely positioned to provide.
AJi has successfully reaffirmed its definitive, long-term commitment to the Syrian market through its prominent presence at BUILDEX 2026 and the establishment of its strategic new partnership with Tala Engineering Consulting and Project Management. By pooling global insights with deep-rooted domestic experience, both organisations are preparing to tackle the complex engineering challenges ahead. The firm stands ready to support and guide the country's ongoing journey toward a resilient, sustainable recovery and holistic national development.
Emirates is advancing inflight sustainability through its closed-loop recycling programme. (Image source: Emirates)
Emirates has successfully repurposed over 88,000 kg of plastic from its Economy Class meal services into new onboard products, marking a significant milestone in its closed-loop recycling programme.
The airline is committed to environmental stewardship and has invested approximately US$13.6mn in transitioning to a closed-loop manufacturing model for inflight dining serviceware. Damaged trays, bowls, and snack dishes are collected in Dubai, cleaned, and processed into new items containing up to 25% recycled material. These are then reintroduced onto thousands of flights, supporting circular economy principles and reducing landfill waste. The initiative is delivered alongside deSter, an aviation serviceware provider holding a 'Gold' sustainability rating from Ecovadis. The recycling facility itself employs sustainable design, utilising solar power and efficient water management.
Beyond serviceware, Emirates is reducing its environmental footprint across the cabin. First Class mattress toppers and blankets now use reusable bags made from recycled polyester instead of plastic packaging. Headset packaging across all classes is made from 100% recycled low-density polyethylene. Children's plush toys and bags incorporate at least 50% recycled content , and unnecessary plastic wrapping has been removed.
Amenity kits across cabins feature bio-based materials, kraft paper, and recycled post-consumer polyester. Economy and Premium Economy fleece blankets are now crafted from recycled polyester, with each blanket using the equivalent of 28 recycled plastic bottles. First and Business Class passengers are provided loungewear made from breathable modal fabric sourced from certified botanic fibres , alongside organic skincare products sustainably harvested in Ireland.
Plastic straws have been entirely phased out in favour of paper alternatives , and menus are printed on responsibly sourced paper. Highlighting the natural world, the airline's inflight entertainment is also featuring 100 episodes of acclaimed BBC Earth documentaries narrated by Sir David Attenborough throughout June and July.
Beam Global participated alongside Platinum Group UAE at this annual business gathering. The expansive event attracted over 122,500 visitors and was hosted by the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.
The transition towards sustainable urban development is accelerating across the Middle East.
San Diego-based Beam Global recently exhibited at the highly anticipated Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026 event on 7 May to showcase its innovative, 'off-grid' EV charging solutions and connect with key regional decision-makers.
Showcasing Innovation at the Make it in the Emirates 2026 Exhibition
Beam Global participated alongside Platinum Group UAE at this annual business gathering. The expansive event attracted over 122,500 visitors and was hosted by the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. The ADNEC Group, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and the ADNOC Group, organised this massive exhibition.
At the event, Beam Middle East presented a comprehensive portfolio of 'off-grid' EV charging solutions in Abu Dhabi. These advanced products are designed for rapid deployment, completely removing the need for traditional construction or complex grid connections.
Rapid Deployment of Resilient Energy Infrastructure
The company's innovative solutions deliver reliable, independent energy where traditional power grid access is limited or highly vulnerable. Key advantages of these systems include:
- Delivering clean power without the need for construction or grid connection.
- Providing rapid deployment capabilities that save significant time.
- Ensuring reliable power delivery when grids are constrained or vulnerable.
- Supporting sustainable city development through innovative energy infrastructure.
Exhibited products included a dedicated BeamBike installation located conveniently at the Marina Parking at ADNEC. This installation provided a firsthand look at these clean technologies.
Empowering Autonomous Vehicle Charging Technology
The MIITE event provided Beam Global with direct access to crucial investors across various sectors, including government, defence, and transportation. This strategic engagement directly supported the company's regional growth strategy and ongoing expansion across the Middle East.
Desmond Wheatley, chief executive officer of Beam Global, emphasised the immense importance of this exhibition. “MIITE is a gathering of all the most influential decision makers in the UAE,” he stated. “We are demonstrating Beam Middle East's portfolio of products to members of the royal family, senior government officials, autonomous vehicle operators, and other prospective customers."
He noted that the impressive scale of the event clearly demonstrated that the UAE is open for business. Wheatley added: "We are getting the attention that we deserve – the sort of attention that I believe will lead to material orders as we continue to grow our presence in this very vibrant market."
Regional Growth and Strategic Leadership
This strategic push aligns with broader ongoing regional ambitions. Abu Dhabi intends to lead the world in autonomous transportation, matching Beam Global's recently announced patented wireless and autonomous vehicle charging technology. Furthermore, the Gulf region plans to spend US$1 trillion on sustainable infrastructure over the coming decade. Management strongly believes its products are ideally suited to capture a lucrative portion of this investment.
During the event, Wheatley was joined by Ivan Tlacinac, managing director for Beam Europe, and Uros Toskovic, sales lead for Beam Middle East. Notable highlights included a meeting with Her Excellency Alia Bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship. Wheatley also addressed audiences during a panel discussion and described the BeamPatrol product to senior officers from the Dubai police.
Beam Global continues to develop, patent, design, and manufacture unique technology solutions that power modern transportation and enable robust 'smart city' services. The company’s wider product range encompasses the Beam EV ARC, BeamBike, BeamSpot, BeamWell, BeamPatrol, Beam AllCell custom batteries, and the ARC Mobility trailer. Listed on Nasdaq under the symbol BEEM, the innovator operates globally with headquarters in California and additional facilities spanning Illinois, Serbia, and the UAE. Professionals looking to understand these innovations can learn more about Beam Global's sustainable infrastructure.
The UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) hosted the 16th edition of its Rain Enhancement Hub Webinar Series, bringing together leading international scientists to discuss the future of weather modification technologies and operational cloud seeding strategies.
Held under the theme “From Scientific Evidence to Operational Readiness: Key Lessons from the WMA Annual Meeting for the Future of Rain Enhancement,” the webinar examined how recent scientific findings can be translated into practical rain enhancement operations.
The session featured several UAEREP-supported researchers, including Michael Dixon, Roelof Burger, Will Cantrell and Daniel Rosenfeld.
Moderated by Mohamed Mahmoud, the webinar reviewed insights from the 2026 Weather Modification Association annual meeting held in Reno, Nevada.
Speakers highlighted the growing use of advanced technologies in cloud seeding evaluation, including dual-polarisation radar systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning and causal analysis tools. Discussions also explored developments in cloud microphysics, aerosol-cloud interactions and methods for determining cloud seedability using laboratory research, modelling and satellite observations.
The webinar additionally focused on the operational application of seeding materials and how UAEREP-funded studies are helping improve cloud seeding strategies under UAE weather conditions. Experts noted that upgraded software platforms and integrated data systems are becoming increasingly important in strengthening operational decision-making and programme evaluation.
Abdulla Al Mandous, who also serves as Director General of the National Center of Meteorology, said international collaboration remains essential to advancing weather modification science.
“At NCM, we remain committed to strengthening international scientific cooperation and active engagement across global platforms that advance weather modification research,” he said. “As water security continues to be a strategic priority for the UAE, we are focused on supporting the development and application of innovative, evidence-based technologies that enhance resilience and contribute to sustainable water resources.”
Alya Al Mazroui said the webinar demonstrated the programme’s role in connecting research outcomes with practical implementation.
“By bridging the gap between research outcomes and operational implementation, and fostering knowledge exchange among leading experts, the programme continues to promote multidisciplinary approaches and reinforce partnerships that support sustainable water resource management,” she said.
UAEREP also participated in the Weather Modification Association Annual Meeting 2026 as a sponsor, with its awardees presenting scientific research across multiple technical sessions. The webinar series continues to provide a global platform for researchers and policymakers to explore emerging solutions addressing water scarcity and climate-related challenges.
The Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) is using its 20-year legacy to spearhead the next chapter of sustainable development within the nation's built environment as the United Arab Emirates accelerates its ambitious journey towards achieving Net Zero by 2050.
The Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) is using its 20-year legacy to spearhead the next chapter of sustainable development within the nation's built environment as the United Arab Emirates accelerates its ambitious journey towards achieving Net Zero by 2050
Recently, the Council hosted an anniversary gala, ‘Celebrating 20 Years of Sustainable Impact’. This milestone event brought together industry pioneers, partners, and government leaders to commemorate two decades of landmark achievements. The gathering launched a renewed mission that focuses entirely on future-proofing buildings across the UAE for a resilient, decarbonised world.
Driving environmental transformation
As a cornerstone of the UAE's sustainable building movement, the Council is doubling down on its commitment to drive environmental transformation. With the building sector currently causing a significant portion of the country's carbon emissions, EmiratesGBC's future focus plays a critical role in meeting national climate goals. The organisation's work will drive the deep retrofitting, new construction standards, and circular economy principles that the UAE needs to successfully achieve its Net Zero by 2050 ambition.
Khalid Bushnaq, chairman of EmiratesGBC, emphasised the urgency of this new chapter: “The immediacy of our climate goals means sustainability no longer serves as a luxury or an afterthought, but as a core responsibility we owe to the world and future generations. We feel immensely proud of the foundational role EmiratesGBC has played, but the challenge ahead requires us to act bolder. Our focus remains squarely on the future, as we ensure the built environment enables an equitable and sustainable life for all.”
Expanding the conversation
EmiratesGBC used the event to announce the upcoming launch of ‘The Sustainability Lounge’ to actively accelerate public engagement in this vital mission. EmiratesGBC designed this new podcast series to extend the critical conversation surrounding sustainability beyond industry professionals. This initiative will bring important discussions about green buildings and sustainable living directly to the people who live and work in these spaces, making the wider public active participants in the sustainability journey.
Two decades of impact
Two decades of foundational achievements solidly support EmiratesGBC’s forward-looking mission. Since its inception in 2006, when the World Green Building Council recognised it as the eighth green building council, EmiratesGBC has acted as a pivotal force.
Key historical milestones include:
- Regional Leadership: The Council’s instrumental role in establishing the WorldGBC MENA Network, alongside launching the respected MENA Green Building Awards, has firmly solidified its leadership position.
- Regulatory Influence: Furthermore, EmiratesGBC has played an instrumental role in shaping the UAE’s broader regulatory landscape over the years.
- Policy Development: Its collaborative work alongside major governmental bodies—including the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and Dubai's Supreme Council of Energy—has produced tangible policies. These successes include national retrofitting guidelines and vital energy benchmarking frameworks.
During her keynote address, Dr Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Co-Founder, Vice Chair, and Treasurer of EmiratesGBC, noted the Council's pivotal role in decisively shifting sustainability from a niche concept to a core industry principle. She stated that EmiratesGBC fundamentally changed the conversation around green buildings in the UAE, marking its greatest achievement. Looking ahead, she called for continued collaboration to build resilient, regenerative communities for future generations.
A collaborative future
Outlining the Council's strategy, EmiratesGBC chief executive officer, Abdullatif Albitawi, commented: “Our role as a convener remains more critical than ever. We are creating the platforms where we forge the solutions for our Net Zero ambitions. The MENA Green Building Awards will continue to spotlight the tangible innovations our region can produce, while our Annual Congress will provide the space where the industry collaborates, challenges, and learns, ensuring we all leave better equipped to build the future.”
Arabian Gulf Steel Industries provided Platinum Sponsorship for the 20th-anniversary celebration, which served as the official launchpad for an intensified focus on the future, reaffirming shared commitments to meeting the UAE's ambitious climate targets.
Pilot Crushtec has been named Metso’s Best Dealer in the EMEA region, a prestigious international accolade recognising the company’s strong commercial performance, customer support strength and long-standing commitment to delivering high-value crushing and screening solutions across the Middle East and Africa
The award positions Pilot Crushtec among Metso’s top distributors globally, while specifically recognising its leading performance across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It also reflects the company’s sustained sales success, technical capability and customer-focused service approach across its Southern and sub-Saharan African territory.
According to Francois Marais, sales and marketing director at Pilot Crushtec, the recognition marks an important milestone for the business and highlights the collective effort of its people.
“This recognition is a significant achievement and a powerful testament to the commitment, expertise and passion of our entire team,” commented Marais.
“Being recognised on an international stage among leading distributors including others across Europe, the Middle East and Africa reinforces our position as a trusted partner and industry leader.”
Marais says several factors contributed to the company securing the award, including continued market growth across Southern and sub-Saharan Africa, robust aftermarket support capabilities and deep product and application knowledge.
“Our consistent sales performance and market growth across Southern and Sub-Saharan Africa has been a key contributor,” explained Marais.
“Despite challenging market conditions in many sectors, we have continued to grow the presence of Metso’s crushing and screening solutions in the region.”
He adds that Pilot Crushtec’s established service teams, technical expertise and parts availability ensure customers receive dependable support throughout the full equipment lifecycle.
“Our team works closely with customers to understand their operational requirements and provide solutions that optimise productivity, efficiency and long-term value,” said Marais.
The recognition follows the recent five-year renewal of Pilot Crushtec’s distributorship agreement with Metso, further underlining the strength of the partnership and ensuring customers across Southern and sub-Saharan Africa continue to access globally recognised crushing and screening technology.
“The five-year renewal of our distributorship agreement with Metso is extremely significant for Pilot Crushtec’s long-term strategy and reinforces the strength and stability of our partnership,” Marais says.
Through the renewed agreement, Pilot Crushtec will continue supplying Metso’s static and mobile crushing and screening equipment to customers operating in some of the region’s toughest mining and quarrying environments. It also supports ongoing investment in technical training, spare parts availability and support infrastructure.
Customers benefit from the combination of world-class technology and strong local backing, with Pilot Crushtec maintaining strategic stock of equipment, wear parts and critical components to minimise lead times and maximise uptime.
“Our highly trained service teams work closely with Metso to ensure that customers receive expert installation, commissioning, maintenance and troubleshooting support,” Marais explained. “This ensures machines operate at optimal performance levels throughout their lifecycle.”
The company’s aftermarket portfolio includes genuine spare parts, wear parts, service agreements, technical upgrades and operator training, helping customers maximise productivity and long-term returns.
Looking ahead, Pilot Crushtec plans to build on the latest recognition by expanding its footprint across Africa and further strengthening its support and service capabilities.
“Our priority is to continue delivering exceptional value to our customers and strengthening our position as a leading provider of crushing and screening solutions in Africa, while continuing to build our broader presence and reputation in the global market.,” Marais commented.
This will include broader reach across Sub-Saharan Africa, increased equipment availability and continued enhancement of its aftermarket support network to deliver fast and reliable service wherever customers operate.
“We will also continue investing in skills development and technical training to ensure our teams remain at the forefront of industry expertise and are fully equipped to support the latest technologies from Metso,” he concludedPilot Crushtec Secures Metso EMEA Dealer Honour.
By combining deep regional understanding with global technology partnerships, Pilot Crushtec continues to support the growth and performance of Africa’s mining, quarrying and construction sectors.
EGA has launched and participated in several targeted initiatives over recent years to ensure long-term systemic inclusion.
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the UAE’s largest non-oil industrial company, announced on International Women in Engineering Day that women now hold 25% of all supervisory roles, successfully meeting a target set in 2021.
When EGA initially set this ambitious target in 2021, women occupied just eighteen per cent of supervisory roles. Over the intervening years, the organisation has dedicated substantial resources towards recruitment, training, and retention to bridge this gap by the end of 2025. The results of these focused efforts became particularly evident throughout 2025, a year that saw robust recruitment figures. During this period, more than two hundred women officially joined the company. Notably, this intake included one hundred and thirteen UAE Nationals, further demonstrating EGA’s commitment to domestic talent development. Consequently, the company now employs a total of over eight hundred and thirty women. Highlighting the technical nature of these placements, more than sixty per cent of these female employees are currently working in highly specialised operational roles focused predominantly on engineering.
Leadership and Long-Term Vision
The strategic importance of this demographic shift within the workforce is championed at the highest levels of the organisation. Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, clearly articulated the corporate philosophy underpinning these initiatives. Regarding the milestone, he stated: “Advancing women’s role in industry is essential to building a future-ready workforce that drives excellence. The progress we have achieved reflects our belief that diverse organisations perform better. That’s why we are focused on creating an inclusive environment, and why we will continue to create opportunities for women to contribute, grow, and lead EGA’s and the UAE’s long-term success.”
National Training and Future Targets
Looking beyond the supervisory level, EGA continues to implement robust programmes designed to secure a pipeline of female talent. Last year, the organisation successfully recruited one hundred and ninety-nine young UAE nationals into its comprehensive National Training and Graduate Training programmes. Impressively, ninety-five of these new recruits were women. These specialised training programmes are meticulously structured to prepare high school graduates for demanding technical and administrative positions within the company’s extensive industrial facilities and corporate administration. These ongoing efforts are strictly aligned with EGA's future objectives. The organisation aims to steadily increase overall female representation to fifteen per cent of all roles by the end of 2026. Currently, women account for twelve per cent of the total workforce, a figure that includes frontline operators working directly within the industrial environment.
Cultivating Talent Through Mentorship
EGA has launched and participated in several targeted initiatives over recent years to ensure long-term systemic inclusion. In early 2025, the company introduced Ershaad, a dedicated mentorship programme created specifically for female UAE students. This initiative is carefully designed to encourage young women to pursue fulfilling careers in industry, particularly within STEM fields. Through direct mentoring provided by experienced EGA experts, the Ershaad programme delivers invaluable industry exposure, essential career guidance, and crucial access to professional networks, all of which help young women effectively shape their future careers.
Industry Collaboration and Support Networks
EGA has demonstrated a commitment to advancing gender diversity across the broader industrial landscape, not just internally. In 2023, the organisation launched the Challenger Programme. This collaborative initiative brings together leading industrial companies to collectively address shared, practical challenges related to gender diversity. Complementing this collaborative effort, EGA has actively worked with the American University of Sharjah to rigorously research the specific barriers to women’s participation in the heavy industrial workforce, actively seeking viable solutions to achieve true systemic inclusion. Finally, the foundation for much of this internal support was laid in 2020 with the establishment of the EGA Women’s Network, which continues to provide women at all levels of the company with a vital platform for connection, leadership development, and mutual professional support.
The new automotive logistics hub in Dubai is specifically designed to strengthen core industry verticals and effectively expand Hellman's global network capabilities.
The global supply chain landscape is constantly evolving to meet the demands of fast-growing industries.
On June 8th, 2026, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics officially broke ground on a brand-new, dedicated facility. This new automotive logistics hub in Dubai is strategically located within the highly sought-after Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza).
This significant project marks a major milestone in the company's long-term growth agenda. It is specifically designed to strengthen core industry verticals and effectively expand the company's global network capabilities. By establishing this site, Hellmann aims to support the expanding operational needs of its existing automotive customers in the region while creating scalable capacity for future growth.
Strengthening the Middle East automotive logistics market
The decision to invest in dedicated, industry-focused infrastructure allows Hellmann to enhance its ability to deliver highly resilient logistics solutions. These solutions are specifically tailored to the growing Middle East automotive logistics market. Market projections indicate that this sector is expected to expand at an annual rate of around 4% to 6% through the year 2030. The United Arab Emirates plays a strategically vital role in this context. The country serves as a key gateway connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. Furthermore, the UAE offers strong multimodal connectivity and robust infrastructure for comprehensive global supply chain offerings.
The built-to-suit facility is currently being developed by INDU Logistics to meet these regional demands which is part of the INDU Group. Once completed, it will serve as a dedicated automotive hub seamlessly integrated within Hellmann's Middle East network.
The massive facility, spanning approximately 28,000 square meters is meticulously designed to manage the full spectrum of automotive spare parts logistics. The operational layout includes several specialized zones to maximize efficiency:
- It utilises high-density bin storage to organize smaller components efficiently and securely.
- The facility incorporates extensive pallet racking systems for standard freight and inventory management.
- It features specialised handling areas dedicated entirely to oversized and bulky automotive components.
This site will provide the scalable infrastructure necessary to support efficient, high-volume distribution across the GCC, Africa, and selected international markets.
Delivering high-performance logistics solutions
Industry leaders recognise the immense importance of this strategic development. Lee I'Ons, the regional CEO for IMEA at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, highlighted the strategic value of the project by stating:
“The UAE is a strategically important market within our global network. By establishing this dedicated automotive hub in Jafza, we are systematically expanding our regional capabilities and creating further scalable, industry-focused infrastructure. This enables us to deliver competitive, high-performance logistics solutions for our customers and to support their long-term growth,”
Similarly, Abdulla Al Hashmi, global chief operating officer for Parks and Economic Zones at DP World, emphasized the broader regional impact:
“Hellman's investment in Jebel Ali Free Zone reflects the rapid pace at which the automotive industry is growing in the Middle East, with customers looking for faster, more reliable access to critical spare parts across multiple markets. By continuing to build specialized infrastructure in Dubai, we are supporting our partners in managing uncertainty and keeping their operations moving,”
The groundbreaking of this new facility represents a forward-thinking approach to modern supply chain management. Hellmann, by combining a prime geographic location with highly specialized storage capabilities, is well-positioned to serve a rapidly expanding market. Businesses looking to optimise their supply chains should continuously monitor these infrastructure developments to stay ahead of industry trends.
