T: 0161 777 9970
Manufacturing in the Middle East has seen significant growth over the years, with countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE and Egypt investing heavily to help diversify their economies and develop the manufacturing sector in the region.
In Saudi Arabia, the National Industrial Development and Logistics Programme is focused on transforming the country, putting it on the map as a global logistics hub and an industrial powerhouse. While oil production still accounts for over 40% of GDP, investment into the domestic manufacturing sector has reached over $130 billion since 2016, when the Saudi Vision 2030 was launched.
The country’s adoption of Industry 4.0, with investment in AI (artificial intelligence) and robotics, is boosting productivity and efficiency in many areas. Manufacturing activity was up 18.5% from the previous year in December 2022, following the launch of the Saudi Advanced Manufacturing Hub in partnership with the World Economic Forum. In 2023 the Saudi government announced the development of 15 factories, ranging from chemical plants and pharmaceutical labs to aerospace component manufacturing and metal forming.
In the UAE, the manufacturing industry encompasses key sectors such as chemicals, rubber and plastics, metals, and food manufacturing. The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology launched Operation 300bn in (DATE), an industrial strategy aimed at enhancing manufacturing’s role in advancing sustainable economic growth, with an output of AED 300bn by 2031. The government is focused on “deploying clean energy solutions, driving industrial innovation and promoting responsible consumption and production.”
In Egypt, plans have been set to invest in the manufacturing sector, which holds the top position in contributing to the gross domestic product. The manufacturing sector is also responsible for over 85% of Egypt’s total non-oil exports. Due to the country’s location, Egypt is also focused on becoming a key player in the green hydrogen industry. Green hydrogen will bring employment opportunities, increase exports, and attract more investment.
A colossal project to build an industrial city in Egypt has also been in talks, as Turkey plans to build a city that would be dedicated to the machinery/equipment, aluminium, textiles, and automotive industries. In February 2024, this project was discussed during talks in Cairo between Trade and Industry Minister Ahmed Samid and a Turkish Chamber delegation.
The growth on manufacturing in the Middle East region is undeniable, and Brit-Lube is already a key supplier to the industry, delivering premium lubrication solutions to support the performance and longevity of industrial machinery. The product portfolio covers an array of applications, with specialist products for specific industries. Contact the team to discuss your requirements and find your local distributor – admin@brit-lube.com