According to a new report by Expert Market Research, the cement industry in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is undergoing a phase of sustained expansion. With major economies investing in infrastructure, real estate, and industrial development, the demand for cement—a core construction material—is rapidly increasing. The MENA cement market attained a volume of approximately 756.12 million metric tons (MMT) in 2024. Over the forecast period of 2025 to 2034, the market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.50%, reaching nearly 1291.56 MMT by 2034.
This steady growth trajectory is supported by rising urbanization, mega infrastructure projects, economic diversification, and post-pandemic construction recovery across several countries in the region.
Several MENA countries have launched ambitious national development plans to diversify their economies and reduce dependence on oil revenues. These plans include large-scale investments in infrastructure—ranging from transport and energy to tourism and housing. Examples include:
Saudi Vision 2030: Includes megaprojects like NEOM, Qiddiya, The Red Sea Project, and extensive urban infrastructure upgrades.
UAE Projects: Continued expansion in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including Al Maktoum Airport expansion, Expo 2020 legacy projects, and mixed-use developments.
Egypt’s New Administrative Capital: A massive initiative to decongest Cairo and build a modern capital with commercial, residential, and government hubs.
These projects require vast quantities of cement, supporting consistent market demand through the decade.
The MENA region is one of the fastest urbanizing parts of the world. Countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco are witnessing rapid population growth, leading to rising demand for housing, schools, hospitals, and municipal infrastructure. Cement plays a critical role in enabling this urban expansion.
Urban planning programs in countries such as Jordan, Iraq, and Algeria are also contributing to the growth of the regional cement industry.
Beyond housing and infrastructure, the growth of industrial zones, logistics hubs, retail centers, and hospitality projects is creating new demand for cement in both urban and rural areas. Gulf countries are investing in industrial diversification, free zones, and warehousing, while North African nations are expanding export-oriented industrial corridors.
The pandemic temporarily slowed construction activity in 2020–2021. However, most projects have resumed, and the industry is seeing a rebound fueled by pent-up demand and renewed investment flows. This construction rebound is positively impacting cement consumption, especially in high-growth markets like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE.
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Cement in the MENA market is typically categorized by its form and use case:
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC): Dominates the market due to its widespread use in residential and commercial projects.
White Cement: Used in architectural finishes and decorative applications.
Blended Cement: Gaining popularity for its environmental benefits and improved performance in specific climates.
Sulphate-Resisting Cement: Used in coastal and industrial zones where chemical resistance is required.
In terms of delivery format:
Bagged Cement remains popular in retail and small-scale construction.
Bulk Cement is favored in infrastructure and industrial projects for logistical efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The Kingdom is the largest market in the region, driven by massive public spending under Vision 2030. The construction of megacities, stadiums, roads, and entertainment complexes is driving high volumes of cement consumption. Additionally, the privatization of cement plants and government encouragement of local manufacturing are strengthening the industry.
Egypt is the second-largest cement producer and consumer in MENA. With a strong domestic market and access to African and Mediterranean export routes, the country is positioned as a regional cement hub. Government housing programs, new urban centers, and the New Suez Canal Economic Zone are key demand drivers.
While the UAE’s construction sector saw a temporary slowdown during the pandemic, the market has recovered strongly. Dubai continues to lead in high-end real estate, while Abu Dhabi focuses on public infrastructure, ports, and renewable energy projects. Cement imports and clinker grinding units support local demand.
Both countries are investing in transportation, housing, and renewable energy. In Algeria, the government is pushing for cement self-sufficiency, while Morocco has expanded its cement export footprint into West Africa.
Reconstruction in post-conflict Iraq and infrastructure investment in Jordan are driving new demand for cement. However, import dependency, supply chain issues, and energy availability remain challenges for both countries.
Environmental concerns are rising in the MENA region, especially around carbon emissions from cement production, which is one of the most energy-intensive industries globally. In response, manufacturers are adopting:
Clinker substitution with materials like fly ash and slag
Waste heat recovery systems
Alternative fuels such as refuse-derived fuel (RDF)
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) pilot projects
The demand for low-carbon cement and sustainable building materials is expected to grow in both government and private sector projects, aligning with climate goals in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
The MENA region hosts a mix of local and multinational cement producers. Major companies include:
LafargeHolcim Group
Arabian Cement Company
Yamama Cement Co.
Cementir Holding
Misr Cement Group
Suez Cement
Raysut Cement Company
Oman Cement Company
Saudi Cement Company
Ciments du Maroc
These players are expanding capacity, investing in modernization, and targeting both domestic and export markets.
As the MENA region continues to modernize and diversify its economies, the demand for cement will remain strong across infrastructure, housing, industrial, and public sector projects. The market is expected to add over 530 million metric tons in volume between 2024 and 2034.
Opportunities will also grow in:
Export markets (particularly Africa and South Asia)
Green cement technologies
Digital plant optimization and energy efficiency
Public-private partnerships in construction
While challenges such as energy costs, geopolitical instability, and raw material logistics may affect short-term performance, the long-term outlook remains highly positive.
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