The celebration of Emirates Global Aluminium marks a significant milestone, embodying the spirit of unity and progress within the UAE. With 50 years of industrial achievements and a decade of integration between Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Aluminium (Emal) and Dubai Aluminium (Dubal), the company stands as a pillar of the nation’s economy. This tribute showcases a legacy of innovation and sustainability while highlighting the leadership’s vision that has propelled the UAE into the global industrial arena.
A Landmark Celebration
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, along with His Highness Sheikh Diab bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Head of the Presidential Court for Development Affairs and Families of Martyrs, attended the celebration held at the company’s headquarters in Al Taweelah, Abu Dhabi. The event was themed “50 Years of Legacy, Ten Years of Unity, and a Promising Future for Global Growth,” emphasizing the company’s influential role in the industrial development of the UAE.
Significance of Unity
During this momentous occasion, Sheikh Hamdan highlighted, “Fifty years ago, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum launched Dubai Aluminium with an annual production capacity of 135,000 tons. This represented one of the foundational pillars for the industrial renaissance and economic diversification within the nation. Approximately ten years ago, a strategic shift occurred with the merging of Dubai Aluminium and Emirates Aluminium, forming a singular national industrial entity that embodies the spirit of unity and possesses a competitive edge in global markets.”
Driving Innovation and Sustainability
Sheikh Hamdan further noted that Emirates Global Aluminium is now the beating heart of the aluminium industry in the UAE, producing over two million tons annually and contributing approximately 23 billion dirhams to the national economy. He commended the company’s role in advancing technological innovation and sustainability, becoming the first in the world to produce aluminium powered by solar energy, alongside introducing a new generation of low-carbon aluminium products.
The Path Ahead
In line with this commitment, Sheikh Hamdan emphasized, “Achieving a global presence is the fruit of ambition, innovation, and determination to lead. These are the same values that underpin our journey of unity.”
A National Role Model
Sheikh Diab underscored the integral role the industrial sector plays in the economy, asserting it as a crucial pillar for comprehensive development. He stated that Emirates Global Aluminium is a prime example of industrial success, having significantly contributed over five decades to the growth and economic diversification of the UAE. This reinforces the UAE’s standing as a beacon of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on regional and global stages.
Global Leadership in Aluminium Production
Emirates Global Aluminium is recognized as the world’s largest producer of high-quality aluminium. The aluminium it produces ranks among the top manufactured exports for the UAE, second only to oil and gas, reaching beyond 50 countries. With a projected rise in global demand for aluminium by 50% to 80% by 2050, the company aims to expand its reach and solidify its global leadership in the sector.
Strategic Growth and Transformation
Following the visit to the company’s headquarters, Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Diab reviewed the strategic transformation and growth plans of Emirates Global Aluminium. The company is on track to develop the first new primary aluminium plant in the U.S. since 1980, which will double the capacity of American primary aluminium production. Additionally, it is creating a global recycling platform by acquiring and expanding facilities in Germany and the U.S., along with establishing the largest aluminium recycling plant in the UAE at Al Taweelah.
A Legacy Built on Vision
Since its inception in 1975, Emirates Global Aluminium has transformed from a small regional smelter in Jebel Ali into a global industrial powerhouse. With significant expansions over the years, the company continues to set benchmarks in efficiency and innovation.
This remarkable journey reflects the commitment to the principles of sustainability, innovation, and the spirit of unity that the UAE stands for—shaping a bright future not just for the organizations involved, but for the entire nation’s industrial landscape.