Ras Al Khaimah, 20-May-2025: Marking a major milestone in its regional strategy, H.B. Fuller has set up a new manufacturing site in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), aiming to drive forward its focus on innovation, eco-friendly practices, and market expansion across the Middle East and North Africa.
The unveiling ceremony was graced by the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Managing Director of RAKEZ, the event was attended by Celeste Mastin, President and CEO of H.B. Fuller, along with a delegation of over 50 key industry collaborators, symbolizing a crucial step in the company’s plan to strengthen its presence in the region.
Located in the Al Hamra Industrial Zone of RAKEZ, the 15,000-square-metre site is outfitted with high-tech automation, cutting-edge blending systems, and large-capacity storage tanks. Engineered to produce premium adhesives and sealants, the facility is tailored to serve the construction sector, including projects involving roofing, infrastructure, mechanical systems, and building exteriors, while offering room for future growth and adaptation.
In the official press release of RAKEZ Group, Celeste Mastin, president and CEO of H.B. Fuller said, “The inauguration of our new manufacturing facility in the United Arab Emirates marks a significant milestone in our journey to support the region’s dynamic construction sector. Strategically located to serve our customers more efficiently, this facility underscores our long-term commitment to the Middle East. We are proud to manufacture in the region, for the region — delivering high-performance, reliable, and future-ready solutions.”
H.B. Fuller selected Ras Al Khaimah as its regional base due to the emirate’s prime geographic position, well-developed infrastructure, and pro-business ecosystem. This strategic move is set to streamline the company’s supply chain and aligns with its global vision to strengthen resilience and grow in rapidly expanding markets.
In the same press release of RAKEZ Group, CEO Ramy Jallad said, “H.B. Fuller’s milestone is also a clear reflection of the confidence international manufacturers have in Ras Al Khaimah. With manufacturing contributing around 30% to the emirate’s GDP, our industrial sector is a key pillar of economic growth and diversification. We’ve built a thriving ecosystem that’s home to a wide range of manufacturers across multiple sectors—from construction materials to advanced technologies—making Ras Al Khaimah an ideal launchpad for businesses looking to serve the broader MENA region. At RAKEZ, we’re focused on enabling that growth by offering tailored support, efficient set-up processes, and a business-friendly environment that empowers global companies to succeed. We’re excited to support H.B. Fuller as they bring advanced manufacturing capabilities to MENA.”
The inauguration underscores Ras Al Khaimah’s rising status as a prime destination for industrial expansion, driven by incentives such as full foreign ownership, attractive tax structures, and operational costs that are up to 10% lower than the regional standard. These strategic benefits have propelled the emirate to the forefront of industrial development in the UAE, with manufacturing now accounting for nearly one-third of its economic output.
RAKEZ’s continued success in drawing top-tier global manufacturers is reinforcing the emirate’s identity as a dynamic, forward-looking hub for industrial innovation and sustainable economic progress.
The opening of H.B. Fuller’s manufacturing plant in Ras Al Khaimah represents a major move to grow its presence in the MENA region, capitalizing on the emirate’s advantageous location, strong infrastructure, and supportive business climate. This development not only strengthens the company’s supply chain but also highlights Ras Al Khaimah’s growing prominence as a leading industrial hub driving sustainable growth and economic diversification in the UAE.
