The Apave Group, a global authority in risk management with over 150 years of expertise, proudly unveils its new state-of-the-art testing laboratory in Abu Dhabi. This facility marks a major enhancement of the group’s services, reinforcing its dedication to the UAE market.
Led by CEO Philippe Maillard and Managing Director Muffakham Shareef of Apave-Lonestar, the inauguration was attended by nearly 120 guests. Attendees toured the cutting-edge lab and explored thematic exhibits showcasing Lonestar’s and Apave’s expertise. From geotechnics and topography to civil engineering, mechanics, and analytical chemistry, specialists demonstrated the Group’s advanced capabilities, answered queries, and highlighted Apave’s readiness to meet the UAE’s growing demand.
A Comprehensive Growth Plan for the UAE and Beyond
Since 2023, Apave Group has significantly bolstered its UAE presence through strategic integrations. This includes re-establishing operations via:
> Acquiring Technical Inspection Verification (TIV), previously part of the ABS Group;
> Increasing its stake in Certifer, a French rail and guided mobility expert recognized as an Independent Safety Assessor (ISA) by the Road and Transport Authority,
> Acquiring Lonestar, a key local player with over 30 years in laboratory and geotechnical testing.
The new Abu Dhabi site, launched on September 10, showcases the unified strength of these entities.
“The Middle East, particularly the UAE, is crucial for Apave Group, where we’ve significantly invested, especially with our TIV and Lonestar integrations. The new Abu Dhabi lab inauguration underscores our commitment to expanding our growth and supporting the region’s economic development. The demand is vast. Apave will ensure project success thanks to its deep local knowledge and global network,” stated Philippe Maillard.
The new site in Abu Dhabi, launched on September 10, is a testament to the combined strength of these entities.
With cutting-edge equipment, the lab sets new benchmarks in precision and reliability for civil/construction material testing, geotechnical soil investigation, and topographic surveys, bolstering the UAE’s commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainable industrial progress.
Increasing Demand for Testing and Certification
By 2025, the UAE’s testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) industry is a key pillar of industrial growth. Valued at $2.37 billion in 2024 and projected to grow steadily until 2030, the sector is driven by rising consumer safety demands, stricter regulations, rapid tech advancements, and trade globalization. TIC services are crucial to ensure compliance with standards and safety protocols, especially as sectors like manufacturing, construction, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare expand rapidly.
Featuring over 300 testing solutions, Apave’s new Abu Dhabi lab marks the culmination of nine months of work and a Dh2 million investment. This achievement solidifies Apave Group’s role as a comprehensive risk management partner in the UAE, supporting the nation’s ambitious economic and development goals. Designed to meet the expectations of prominent UAE companies like Adnoc, ENEC, and Emaar, the new facility underscores the group’s commitment to driving national economic advancement and fostering local industrial growth.
These developments enhance Apave’s UAE presence with over 650 local employees, backed by the group’s global expertise to provide solutions tailored to local needs.
