The facility will be spanning over 40,000 square metres. WAM

Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD Group), the largest operator of integrated and purpose-built economic zones, and UAE-based Apex Engineering Industries have announced the signing of a 50-year land lease agreement for the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility in KEZAD Area A — Al Ma’mourah.

To be developed with an Dhs90 million investment by Apex Engineering, the plant will produce industrial parts, components, machinery, and equipment for the oil and gas, locomotive, and defence industries.

Spanning over 40,000 square metres, the facility will utilise advanced engineering for the design and development of innovative systems to serve these sectors. All operations at the plant will align with environmental protection commitments and uphold the sustainable business practices in KEZAD.

The construction of the proposed plant is set to further propel manufacturing for industries with large-scale undertakings and position KEZAD as the prime hub for extensive industrial development. The agreement emphasises AD Ports Group’s strategy to attract manufacturing companies from around the world to drive economic growth.

Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO of KEZAD Group, said, “The establishment of the new plant will be a welcome addition to our ecosystem of diverse industrial manufacturing companies driving sustained economic growth.”

He added, “We look forward to the project’s contribution to the UAE’s strategic vision of diversifying its economy and becoming a global hub for innovation.”

Nooruddin F. Daud, Partner at Apex Engineering Industries, commented, “Apex Engineering Industries LLC is pleased to set up our state-of-the-art engineering R&D and manufacturing facilities in Abu Dhabi. We aim to provide services to the oil and gas, locomotives, automotive, defence, and engineering sectors in the UAE. We look forward to contributing to the engineering and manufacturing ecosystem of the UAE in general and Abu Dhabi in particular.”

He continued, “We already have our plant and equipment installed for a unique material treatment process that enhances the lifecycle of metal wear parts like cutting tools, brake discs and gears, thereby providing economic benefits to our customers. The industry-enabling regulations and the business-friendly environment provided by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), coupled with world-class facilities provided by KEZAD, make it a very attractive option to set up our facilities here.”

A day earlier, Al Ghurair Foods marked the groundbreaking of its new state-of-the-art Corn Starch Manufacturing Plant at Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD). This facility, a first of its kind in the region, represents a significant stride in enhancing local food production capacity and contributing to the UAE’s National Strategy for Food Security.

Spanning a 13.6-hectare site in KEZAD Area A – Al Ma’mourah, this standalone facility is designed to serve both local and international markets. Equipped with advanced technologies, it will manufacture an array of products, including native and modified starches, glucose syrups, and maltodextrin, catering to diverse sectors such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and various industrial applications.

Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO of Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi - KEZAD Group, said, “KEZAD Group commends Al Ghurair on the groundbreaking of the Corn Starch Manufacturing plant. Al Ghurair’s mission and vision for this facility is closely aligned with our own vision, and that of the leadership of the emirate, of enhancing the role of Abu Dhabi in food security across the region, as well as creating job opportunities. This cutting-edge facility boosts our domestic production capabilities and we at KEZAD Group are proud to be part of this journey.”

John Iossifidis, Group CEO of Al Ghurair, said, “We’re extremely proud to break ground on this new venture under Al Ghurair Foods, which represents another significant step in our journey to support the UAE’s food security ambitions. As the first facility of its kind in the region, this project not only allows us to enhance our production capabilities but also reinforces our commitment to pioneering innovative solutions in the industry. By investing in cutting-edge technology and working with local partners such as KEZAD, we are continuing to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and ensuring the nation’s self-sufficiency in essential food categories.”

The plant will initially process 650 tons of corn per day, with the capacity to scale up to 1,000 tons daily as demand increases. The project is expected to create significant employment opportunities, with over 200 jobs being generated for the local workforce.

WAM