Almaden to Build a major step toward strengthening its global footprint, Chinese solar glass manufacturer Almaden has revealed plans to build a large-scale solar glass production facility in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The project, valued at approximately $100 million, will have the capacity to produce 500,000 tons of solar glass each year.
This strategic move marks a significant shift for Almaden, which has been seeking new international growth opportunities amid increasing competition and falling margins in the Chinese market. The UAE plant is expected to become a major hub for solar component manufacturing in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, further solidifying the country’s role in the global energy transition.
A Strategic Expansion into the Middle East
Almaden’s decision to set up operations in the UAE comes at a time when China’s solar glass sector is facing serious headwinds. In recent years, the Chinese solar manufacturing industry has been hit hard by overcapacity, price wars, and lower profits. For Almaden, 2024 was a challenging year, with the company reporting a 20% drop in annual revenue, bringing in around 2.89 billion Chinese yuan (roughly $397 million). Even more concerning, Almaden posted a net loss of 127 million yuan — a dramatic 252% decline compared to the previous year.
The company’s gross profit margin also shrank to just 4.5%, making it clear that relying solely on the domestic market is no longer sustainable. By investing in a factory in the UAE, Almaden is not only diversifying its production base but also positioning itself closer to some of the world’s most promising solar energy markets.
The Middle East, especially the UAE and Saudi Arabia, has seen a surge in solar energy investment in recent years. The UAE’s commitment to clean energy is reflected in large-scale solar projects like the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai and the Noor Abu Dhabi plant. These developments align with the nation’s broader sustainability goals under its “UAE Energy Strategy 2050” and its ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
What the New Factory Will Offer
The upcoming Almaden facility is designed to be state-of-the-art, featuring a 1,600-ton-per-day melting furnace and precision equipment for producing ultra-clear and ultra-thin photovoltaic glass. This type of glass is a key component in solar modules, allowing sunlight to pass through while protecting the solar cells inside.
The factory will not only serve markets in the Middle East but also support customers in Africa, Europe, and South Asia. This geographical advantage will allow Almaden to reduce shipping times, cut transportation costs, and offer more competitive prices in international markets. It will also help clients avoid tariffs and trade barriers that sometimes affect products exported from China.
Additionally, localizing production in the UAE brings the company closer to its end users, making it easier to respond to custom orders and deliver faster turnaround times — key factors in the highly competitive solar industry.
Boosting the UAE’s Renewable Energy Sector
The UAE stands to benefit significantly from Almaden’s investment. The project will likely create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, transfer technical know-how, and boost the country’s growing clean energy sector. It also strengthens the UAE’s efforts to position itself as a global hub for advanced manufacturing and renewable energy technologies.
Government authorities in the UAE have consistently encouraged foreign investment in green industries, offering incentives such as tax breaks, industrial zones, and infrastructure support. Almaden’s project is a strong vote of confidence in the UAE’s ability to attract and support high-tech, sustainable industries.
Industry experts suggest that solar glass production in the region could eventually support a more localized solar supply chain, reducing dependence on imports and increasing resilience. This could accelerate the region’s clean energy goals and help make solar technology more affordable and widely available.
Almaden’s Global Vision
Founded in China, Almaden is a leading player in the field of photovoltaic glass and optical coating. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for high-precision glass products used in solar panels and electronic displays. With operations already established in regions such as Vietnam and the United States, the UAE facility represents a further step in Almaden’s strategy to become a truly global manufacturer.
According to the company’s public statements, Almaden plans to continue investing in research and development, with a focus on enhancing the durability and efficiency of its glass products. By operating closer to its global clients, the company hopes to improve service quality while expanding its technological edge.
A Win-Win for Business and Sustainability
As the world continues to move toward cleaner energy sources, solar power remains one of the most scalable and cost-effective solutions. Glass is a critical part of every solar panel, and demand for it is expected to grow rapidly in the coming decade. Almaden’s decision to invest in solar glass manufacturing in the UAE is a strong signal that the renewable energy transition is not only necessary — it’s also good business.
The new factory is expected to break ground in the coming months, with production set to begin in 2026. Once completed, it will mark a new chapter for Almaden and reinforce the UAE’s position as a leader in clean energy innovation.
UAE and Switzerland Strengthen Ties to Boost Global Development
