25 Years WACKER Middle East and Africa
Advancing the Region, Driving Change and Growing Together
For 25 years, we at WACKER Middle East and Africa have been shaping the region's chemical industry. Driven by a commitment to providing customer focused and region specific solutions, we have played a pivotal role in transforming the region's chemical landscape. With a focus on customer proximity and rigorous product testing, our Middle East and Africa division is a unique hub for collaboration, fostering growth and driving positive change.
Enabling Sustainable Solutions in the Region
“It's ingrained in our DNA to constantly seek solutions for the future.”
We drive sustainability in the region's chemical industry. With a commitment to reducing carbon footprints, our innovative solutions contribute to the ambitious sustainability goals of WACKER and the region's policymakers. Our cooperation with public authorities and universities underscores our commitment beyond the commercial aspects and extends to providing solutions that enable sustainable industries.
Building and Nurturing Strong Partnerships in the Region
“Only with WACKER on our journey, we've become what we are today.”
For the past 25 years, we have been dedicated to creating and maintaining strong partnerships in the region. Through collaboration, joint innovation and commitment, we have built lasting relationships that have played a vital role in our partners' growth and success. Our emphasis on customer intimacy, product testing and customized solutions has solidified us as a trusted ally in the development and progress of our valued partners in the region.
Growing a network for learning and innovation
“A milestone in supporting customer application development.”
Over the past 25 years, our Technical Center and WACKER ACADEMY have become indispensable pillars of innovation and knowledge transfer in the region. As a hub for technical support and training, they facilitate collaboration with manufacturers, authorities, contractors and consultants, raise quality awareness and help customers test and certify products. In addition, we are offering virtual training sessions and exhibitions to make our programs even more accessible.
Cultivating collaboration and community spirit
“It's about the people, the employees, and our commitment in every way.”
In the dynamic landscapes of the Middle East and Africa, our workforce has evolved into a dedicated, talented and diverse team that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The collaborative and innovative approach of our employees has been a driving force behind our success, creating a work environment that values individual contributions and collective achievements. We are committed to fostering a strong sense of community among our employees.
As we celebrate a remarkable 25-year journey since our founding in 1998, we at WACKER Middle East and Africa reflect on our achievements. From the beginning, our commitment has been resolute: to provide tailor-made solutions that address the unique challenges of the Middle East and Africa.
Driven by enduring partnerships that have played a pivotal role in our shared success, we continue to innovate, contribute to resilient infrastructures and foster sustainable industries. As we mark this significant milestone, our focus remains on shared growth, positive change and proactively responding to the evolving needs of the region.
Get a glimpse of our work and find out more about us, the people behind WACKER Middle East and Africa, in the following video. To hear more from our managing director Cyril Cisinski see the full interview below.
Foundation of WACKER Middle East and Africa
By establishing a permanent presence in 1998, we've laid the foundation for customized solutions and lasting partnerships in the Middle East and Africa.
Technical Center for Construction Applications
Our Technical Center is established to test and research products for the construction industry, marking a significant step forward in innovation. This paved the way for subsequent expansions focused on paints and coatings, elastomers and adhesives.
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First Development of Local Recipe for Tile Adhesives and Waterproofing
WACKER pioneered the development of a local formulation for tile adhesives and waterproofing applications. Tailored to the specific climatic conditions, this innovative solution has improved construction practices in the MEA region.
Participation in a Water Resource Conservation Project in Oman
Our products are helping to improve the water supply in Oman by effectively preventing water loss in irrigation canals. The use of waterproofing membranes is particularly important in this region, which is prone to extended periods of drought.
Contributing to Set Up the First Drymix Association in MEA
The Drymix Association is an industry association focused on advancing the drymix mortar industry in the region. The premixed, dry product requires only on-site addition of water, making it more efficient and sustainable than conventional products.
Technical Center Achieved ISO 9001 & ISO 14001
The certifications underscore our commitment to providing superior services and products while adhering to strict environmental management practices.
First Study of External Insulation Finishing System
A local study on External Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS) shows how efficient building solutions tailored to the region's specific needs can be implemented locally. It helps insulate, reducing energy consumption for a lower CO₂ output.
Technical Centers in Dubai Obtained Official ISO 17025 Accreditation
In 2008, we achieved a significant milestone by achieving ISO 17025 accreditation for our Technical Centers. This accreditation ensures high quality support for our customers and strengthens our position as a reliable and competent partner.
Establishment of First Legal Entity in Dubai Silicone Oasis Freezone
WACKER established its first legal entity in the Dubai Silicone Oasis Freezone. This technology park facilitates modern technology-based industries and supports innovation and entrepreneurship in the region by providing a conducive environment.
First Seminar of the WACKER ACADEMY in the MEA Region
As a premier training and knowledge-sharing institution for our customers and partners, the WACKER ACADEMY offered its first construction and coating seminar in the MEA region.
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Co-Operation with King Fahad University
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) is a prestigious institution in Saudi Arabia known for its focus on engineering, science and business. It plays a significant role in advancing education and research in these fields.
Filing the First Patent of Salt Water Resistance
Securing the first patent for salt water resistance in 2010 showcased WACKER's commitment to advancing construction solutions for challenging environments.
Development of Sustainable Roofing System and Patent Filed
Our development and patenting of sustainable roofing systems underscores our commitment to environmentally responsible building practices.
Expansion of Technical Center – Paints & Coatings Laboratory
To further enhance specialized customer support, we have expanded our Technical Center to include a Paints & Coatings laboratory. This expansion is designed to drive innovation in surface solutions and advance industry capabilities for our customers.
Expansion of Technical Center – RTV-Elastomer Laboratory
We've established the RTV Elastomer Lab to enhance customer support for various elastomer solutions such as coatings, sealants and molded parts. This initiative was designed to push the boundaries of elastomer technology in the region.
Expansion of Technical Center – Adhesives and Carpet Laboratory
Our Adhesives and Carpet Lab is the next step in our evolution of customer support and testing capabilities, contributing to our technical capabilities for application in flooring solutions.
Inauguration of MYLAB South Africa
The MYLAB in South Africa serves as an advanced facility for research and development, technical support and collaboration. It acts as a local hub for testing, analysis and knowledge sharing.
Sustainability Conference
Hosting a Sustainability Conference in 2018, we underscored our commitment to eco-friendly solutions, driving positive change in the industry.
Expansion of Technical Center – HCR Lab Establishment
To provide our customers and partners with service and technical support in the area of High Consistency Rubber solutions, we have established our HCR Lab. Here we test and develop customized rubber applications using state-of-the-art technology.
Training with Local Authorities
Our joint training initiatives with local authorities improved industry knowledge and standards and promoted sustainable practices. It paved the way for the ongoing collaboration with Dubai authorities that we enjoy today.
Regional Sustainability Study: Product Applications in the Construction Industry
Our study in Dubai shows how WACKER construction chemicals can save energy and resources. It also demonstrates their effectiveness under the region's specific climatic conditions, reducing energy consumption by 59%.
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Launch of Digital Training Campaign and First Virtual Exhibition and Conference
In 2020, we've launched a digital training campaign and hosted a virtual exhibition and conference. Through their ability to educate, showcase and visualize, digital platforms help us increase the value we deliver to our customers.
Successful Launch of External Insulation Finishing System
In 2020, we successfully launched the External Insulation Finishing System in the region. This marked a milestone in sustainable building practices and demonstrated our commitment to innovative solutions that meet regional needs.
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Regional Road Show
The Regional Road Show in 2021 signifies WACKER's commitment to engaging with the community, sharing knowledge, and fostering regional growth.
Development of Low Carbon Foot Print Formulation for Drymix
We have further extended our product range for sustainable applications and developed a formulation for dry mortar with a low carbon footprint for construction applications.
Expansion of Technical Center – Cement Laboratory
Our specialized cement laboratory enables us to test and develop custom products and formulations that are precisely tailored to the specific needs of the regional market.
Expansion of Technical Center – Consumer Laboratory
To provide state-of-the-art testing, application and product development, and customer service for a wide range of consumer products, our Technical Center was expanded in 2024 to include a Consumer Lab.
Celebrating 25 Years of Commitment
Marking a quarter-century milestone, WACKER celebrates 25 years of dedicated service and innovation in Middle East & Africa. Our enduring presence reflects a journey of growth and partnership, paving the way for continued progress and excellence.
Moving Forward
We provide our customers with excellent service by expanding our product range, developing new applications, and continuously improving our offerings at our Technical Center and the WACKER ACADEMY.
It's about Innovation, Reliability and Quality
Managing director Cyril Cisinski talks in detail about the development of WACKER Middle East and Africa during the past 25 years. Learn more about our history and the strategies for the future, about the people and the various regions in which we are active.
A Second Home
Mohammed Sanaobar provides a comprehensive overview of our 25-year journey at WACKER Middle East and Africa. He underscores the commitment to developing tailor-made solutions for the region's unique challenges and highlights the key role played by the Technical Center and the WACKER ACADEMY.
We Are Closer to Our Customers
Irma Villanueva focuses on WACKER Middle East and Africa's key role as a technical partner. She highlights key milestones and underscores the chemical industry's path to sustainability. Irma also discusses the unwavering commitment of key employees.
Pioneering sustainable solutions
Our product innovations facilitate the thin-bed method for tile adhesive applications, streamlining resource use and reducing the carbon footprint. At the same time, we are advancing the External Thermal Insulation System, which is now a standard solution in the region and demonstrates an impressive 60% reduction in cooling energy consumption. This not only improves living conditions, but also makes significant strides in reducing the overall carbon footprint. Together, these breakthroughs exemplify our continued commitment to driving change through environmentally conscious and sustainable solutions.
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