At Cemtech MEA 2026, the Future Cement Initiative (FCI) proudly co-hosted a global convening of cement leaders from 35+ countries, united around a defining challenge of our time: transforming the cement sector.
Key moments and insights: Science-Led Strategy
Prof. Bassam Dally presented how FCI’s research at KAUST is advancing next-generation low-carbon cement systems, integrating innovation in engineered and indigenous materials, to directly support Saudi Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2060. Deep engagement with regulators, producers, and FCI Board members reinforced the urgency of scaling science into policy and practice.
Technology at Scale
The exhibition demonstrated deployable solutions across the cement value chain, including carbon capture and utilization, alternative binders and SCMs, AI-enabled process optimization, Industry 4.0 digitalization, and alternative fuels, collectively redefining efficiency, resilience, and emissions intensity.
Industrial Transformation
A technical site visit to Yamama Cement’s 9.285 MTPA integrated plant showcased how large-scale modernization, energy optimization, and process upgrades are reshaping the region’s production landscape.
The MENA region is not reacting to the global energy transition; it is engineering it. Through aligned collaboration between KAUST, PIF, and cement industry partners, FCI remains confident that net-zero cement production in Saudi Arabia can be achieved and replicated globally.