Al Ghurair Foods, part of the renowned Al Ghurair Group, a leading business conglomerate in the UAE, has revealed the phased completion of the country’s inaugural corn starch facility at Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (Kezad) by early 2026.
This significant project enhances the UAE’s industrial independence and promotes the circular economy.
During the Propaper 2025 event in Dubai, Hamad Al Ghurair, vice-president of Al Ghurair Foods, announced the substantial completion of major civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) works. Equipment installation is ongoing, with a phased launch planned for early 2026. “We aim to release our flagship corn starch product in Q1 of 2026, followed by more products in later phases,” Al Ghurair stated.
The facility, covering 13.6 hectares, will notably decrease the UAE’s $20 million annual starch import dependency. It will provide local industries with a reliable, high-quality, cost-effective alternative, enhancing resilience in key manufacturing areas. “Our main focus will be on serving the domestic and GCC markets while exploring South Asia and African economies,” Al Ghurair added.
Corn starch is vital in industries like food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, chemicals, packaging, and paper. In the paper sector, it boosts strength, printability, and coating quality, essential for manufacturers seeking performance and sustainability improvements. “Local starch production strengthens regional supply chains and supports greener manufacturing models,” Al Ghurair said.
The Middle East and Africa’s corn starch market was valued at about $1.3 billion in 2024, with the UAE’s share near $30 million. Analysts attribute demand to population growth, industrial diversification, and a shift to biodegradable materials. The Al Ghurair facility will establish the UAE as a starch production and innovation hub.
The launch aligns with a regional focus on sustainability and recycling, especially in the paper sector. Propaper 2025, from October 13-15, highlights the circular economy, renewable energy, and waste reduction. “Paper mills in the GCC are investing in renewables to reduce climate impact,” said Jeen Joshua, managing director of Verifair. “The rise of Material Recovery Facilities and sorting units feeding regional mills demonstrates serious sustainability efforts.”
Industry estimates show cumulative investments in paper recycling and innovation across the GCC at nearly $200 million, led by UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. Notable investments include $54 million by Star Paper Mills, $40 million by Oman’s Kreyas Paper, and MEPCO in Saudi Arabia. Other projects include $5.5 million by Kimfay East Africa and $2.5 million by Tetra Pak–Union Paper Mills in Egypt.
ENF Recycling data indicates 80-100 paper recycling plants in the Middle East and Africa, reflecting industry growth. Grand View Research values the region’s waste recycling market at $3.46 billion by 2033, with the recycled paper segment at $715.6 million, according to Sper Research.
Al Ghurair’s Kezad project, combining industrial innovation and sustainability, underscores the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” initiative. As the nation diversifies from hydrocarbons, such projects are reshaping its manufacturing landscape, anchoring growth in sustainable industries.
