According to Bader-Eddin, global demand for the light metal will reach 70 million tonnes by 2020 and the Gulf is set to account for 13% of world production by the end of 2013, thanks to aggressive investment and the latest advanced technology.
An estimated 80% of the Gulf's output is exported, said Bader-Eddin, and Gulf investments in the aluminium industry are likely to hit $55 million by 2022, the year Qatar will host the World Cup. This figure comprises $22 billion for the UAE; $7 billion for Saudi Arabia and Kuwait; and $5.7 billion in Qatar.
The Gulf also benefits from its location with easy access to markets in Europe, the USA and the Far East
Reflecting such growth is Aluminium Middle East, formerly Aluminium Dubai, which, unsurprisingly, will be held in Dubai 23-25 April this year.
According to Bader-Eddin, the event will provide a world class interactive platform for key industry players to check out the latest developments and innovations as well as discuss investments in new smelters and expansion plans across local and regional markets.
"GCC countries are currently working hard to achieve their future aspirations and consolidate their leading position in the region and the world by primarily increasing their annual productivity and adding new capacity," said Bader-Eddin.