Emirates Global Aluminium to Build First US Smelter in 35 Years

EGA to Build First US Smelter in 35 Years as Part of UAE’s $1.4 Trillion Investment

Emirates Global Aluminium to Build First US Smelter in 35 Years as Part of UAE’s $1.4 Trillion Investment Plan
March 23, 2025 – The United States will see its first aluminum smelter development in more than thirty years, according to proposals released by Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA). A major part of the UAE’s ambitious $1.4 trillion investment plan, this project aims to improve economic relations with the United States during the next decade.

The White House confirmed on March 21 that the upcoming smelter will significantly enhance domestic aluminum production, nearly doubling the current output. It is anticipated that this action will increase America’s industrial independence and reduce its reliance on imports, especially those from the Middle East and China. The White House characterized the idea as a game-changing action that could revitalize America’s industrial sector, generate thousands of jobs, and guarantee a steady supply of aluminum for vital industries.

The aluminum smelter is part of a larger investment framework in the United Arab Emirates that aims to increase its footprint in high-growth sectors of the U.S. economy. The strategy calls for significant investments in semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy initiatives, and artificial intelligence infrastructure to support industrial innovation and sustainability.

The smelter will be essential to U.S. manufacturing by ensuring a stable local aluminum supply for critical sectors such as construction, automotive, and aerospace. The plant will also use state-of-the-art smelting technologies to improve energy efficiency and reduce its environmental impact. Such initiatives to improve domestic supply chains and lessen dependency on imported raw materials have been highlighted by the Biden administration.

Given the recent drop in domestic aluminum output in the United States, this investment is a critical step in stabilizing the market. The enhanced production capacity will guarantee a robust supply chain that is less susceptible to geopolitical issues and help control aluminum prices.

With its $1.4 trillion investment pledge, the UAE strengthens its long-standing strategic partnership with the US and increases its influence in important technology, energy, and industrial sectors. Although the smelter’s construction site and timeline are still under wraps, it is anticipated that work will start in 2025 and that activities would resume later this decade.

This historic initiative strengthens America’s future manufacturing capabilities and ushers in a new era of industrial cooperation between the United States and the UAE.