DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (Jan. 20, 2016) – Xylem Inc. pledged its commitment to an expansion plan and investment of US $35 million in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The announcement was made during the International Water Summit (IWS) that took place Jan. 19-22 in Abu Dhabi.
The expansion will see increased localization of products and building vital local capabilities, including manufacturing, which will provide customers with more efficient services and products. Xylem has invested in a number of facilities across the region, including a local manufacturing plant and offices in the UAE, Oman and Qatar. Further investment will be made into expanding business service offerings designed to provide customers with smarter solutions to their water technology needs.
“The water-energy nexus is especially relevant throughout the MENA region,” said Vincent Chirouze, regional director of Xylem Middle East and North Africa. “We view the low oil price environment as an opportunity to invest and expand in this market while many of our competitors are being cautious or even limiting their investments. As the Middle East works hard to address long-term water security in the region, we are positioning ourselves for long-term growth and success.”
Additionally, Xylem seeks through its expansion plan to create strategic partnerships with government and private entities to address pressing regional water issues. Xylem and the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology recently announced a research collaboration to establish sustainability indicators such as energy and cost performance of processes and equipment for water, wastewater and water transport and treatment facilities in Abu Dhabi.
“The partnership with the Masdar Institute marks a pivotal milestone in our regional growth plan and represents a solid step in our journey as a leading water technology provider,” said Vincent Chirouze, regional director of Xylem Middle East and North Africa.
In 2015, Xylem President and CEO Patrick Decker alluded to the company’s impending increased regional presence in a panel discussion at IWS. More than just an energy producer, the Gulf region is a vital, dynamic region that is focused on resolving the challenges of limited water supply and population growth in order to drive sustainable economic growth. Xylem sees real opportunity to provide technology solutions to help meet the region’s growing need for sustainable water technologies and solutions.
A critical component of Xylem’s bold growth plans in the region is a significant investment in a local manufacturing plant in Dubai. The facility will bring new jobs to the region and provide the market with locally engineered products and services. In 2015, Xylem doubled its local team to support its growth plan.
Furthermore, the facility will host a training and learning center providing training to engineers, contractors and installers in the proper design, installation and maintenance of water related technology solutions and applications. Xylem moves to the new office in Dubai later this year, which will serve as the headquarters for its regional operations.
Xylem is a global water technology provider, enabling customers to transport, treat, test and use water in public utility, residential and commercial building services, industrial and agricultural settings.