Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the UAE’s largest industrial enterprise outside the oil and gas sector, has earned international recognition from the World Economic Forum (WEF) by joining its Global Lighthouse Network. The network highlights manufacturing sites that have successfully implemented Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies on a large scale.

EGA was designated a 4IR Lighthouse in recognition of its technology-led transformation and its ability to significantly enhance operational performance through advanced digital solutions. This milestone positions EGA as the first industrial organisation in the UAE—and the first aluminium producer worldwide—to be admitted to the prestigious network.

A central pillar of EGA’s transformation has been investment in people. The company has prioritised developing digital skills across its workforce, training more than 3,000 employees in areas such as artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making, and agile work practices.

The deployment of 4IR technologies and AI has delivered measurable improvements across EGA’s operations. Over the past three years, the company has generated more than AED 365 million (around USD 100 million) in financial value through the implementation of over 80 advanced digital use cases, while also enhancing safety standards, product quality, and environmental performance.

At its Al Taweelah operations, EGA has cut operational downtime by half, reduced non-productive time by 18%, and increased overall equipment effectiveness by 12%, supported in part by locally developed industrial technologies. Additionally, the company’s new digital manufacturing platform has lowered the cost of AI-driven image and video analytics by more than 80% and accelerated processing speeds by up to thirteen times compared to earlier systems.

Commenting on the achievement, EGA Chief Executive Officer Abdulnasser Bin Kalban said the recognition reinforces the UAE’s global leadership in the development and adoption of advanced industrial technologies. He noted that joining the Global Lighthouse Network creates valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, further strengthening EGA’s competitiveness in 4IR and AI-driven innovation while advancing efficiency and sustainability.

Bin Kalban also highlighted that EGA initiated its digital transformation strategy in 2021. Recognition by the World Economic Forum, he said, reflects the company’s strong progress in integrating advanced technologies across its industrial and commercial activities, enhancing performance, and enriching both customer and employee experiences. EGA remains committed to expanding its technological capabilities and leveraging innovation to achieve world-class levels of operational excellence.