Tawazun Council, RTX, And EGA Collaborate On Gallium Production Initiative In Abu Dhabi

Tawazun Council, RTX, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to position EGA as a new producer of gallium. This initiative will establish gallium extraction and refining capabilities at EGA’s alumina refinery in Abu Dhabi, making the UAE the second-largest producer globally. Gallium is crucial for various industries, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, medical devices, and telecom infrastructure.

Gallium's importance extends to the defence sector, where it is essential for advanced radars and other products. The agreement ensures companies like RTX have access to this critical mineral. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi from Tawazun Council stated that this project aligns with their 2025–2028 strategy, focusing on building a competitive national industrial base and advancing infrastructure for industrial security.

The Tawazun Economic Programme is leading efforts to attract advanced technologies and foster knowledge transfer. This strategic initiative aims to strengthen the UAE's industrial capabilities and ensure resilience in the defence sector amid global challenges. The programme emphasises high-quality investments and expanding partnerships both locally and internationally.

Dr. Al Nuaimi described the project as pivotal for developing vital industries in the UAE. It positions the country as a leader in gallium production, which is essential for sectors like semiconductors, military radar, electric vehicles, medical technology, and telecommunications. The project aims to enhance production capacities while establishing an independent supply base.

EGA and RTX plan to conduct a feasibility study for a high-purity gallium plant at EGA’s Al Taweelah alumina refinery. This facility processes bauxite ore into alumina, used in aluminium smelters. Gallium is found in trace amounts in bauxite and must be carefully managed due to its impurity status in aluminium.

Abdulnasser Bin Kalban of EGA highlighted gallium's significance for advanced electronics but noted its commercial production challenges. He said, "Gallium is an important metal for the most advanced electronics systems but remains commercially challenging to produce." The agreement with Tawazun Council and RTX makes developing a new gallium source feasible.

Ensuring Reliable Supply Chains

Paolo Dal Cin from RTX emphasised the aerospace and defence industry's reliance on stable access to rare earth elements like gallium. He stated that "Today’s agreement puts us on a path towards a reliable supply of gallium." This supply is crucial for producing critical aerospace and defence solutions.

The collaboration between Tawazun Council, EGA, and RTX supports the UAE's Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy by creating new revenue streams for EGA and enhancing national industrial capabilities. This partnership aims to cement the UAE’s status as an innovative industrial hub globally.

With inputs from WAM