Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the world’s leading ‘premium aluminium’ producer, has long been a trailblazer in the global metals sector. From being the first in the Middle East to join the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative to pioneering the international sale of UAE-developed industrial technology, EGA has consistently set benchmarks. Building on this legacy, EGA has now taken a significant step toward advancing rare metal production. In collaboration with the Tawazun Council and RTX, EGA has signed a MoU to establish the UAE’s first gallium production source further cementing its leadership in strategic material development and sustainable industrial growth.
Now here comes the question – Why Gallium?
Gallium (Ga) is closely linked to the aluminium industry, as it is commonly recovered as a byproduct during alumina (Al₂O₃) production. In the Bayer process widely used to extract alumina from bauxite, gallium accumulates in the sodium aluminate solution, from which it can be extracted. Beyond aluminium production, gallium is also present in residues from zinc processing and other industrial byproducts.
Gallium plays a vital role across a wide range of industries, with key applications in semiconductors, electric vehicles, medical devices, and telecom infrastructure. In the defence sector, gallium is especially critical, serving as an essential material in advanced radar systems and other high-tech defence products. So how can Gallium help EGA in its journey and why EGA took this significant step of establishing UAE’s first gallium production source - this is what we will highlight in the article.
How will this deal help with EGA’s sustainability journey?
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has pledged to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, encompassing both its operations and supply chain. This ambition supports the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 initiative and reflects EGA’s recognition of the need for commercially viable solutions in alternative smelting and carbon capture technologies. To reach this goal, EGA is actively developing a comprehensive roadmap in collaboration with internal teams and external experts.
Gallium contributes to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions through its applications in gallium nitride (GaN) technology and innovative CO₂ conversion processes. GaN, a high-efficiency semiconductor, is widely used in power electronics to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions. So, the recent deal for establishing UAE’s first gallium hub can help EGA in achieving this.
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