Tawazun Council, RTX and EGA Sign MOU to Explore Gallium Production in Abu Dhabi

Core Insights - A memorandum of understanding has been signed between Tawazun Council, RTX, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) to establish EGA as a new producer of gallium, positioning the UAE as the world's second largest producer of this critical mineral [1][2] Group 1: Gallium Production and Applications - The initiative will create gallium extraction and refining capabilities at EGA's alumina refinery in Abu Dhabi [2] - Gallium is essential for various sectors, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, medical devices, and telecom infrastructure, and is critical for defense products such as advanced radars [3][5] - The agreement aims to secure a reliable supply of gallium for RTX and other companies in the aerospace and defense industry [4][5] Group 2: Strategic Importance and Future Plans - The project is seen as a pivotal milestone for the UAE's industrial development, enhancing its position in global gallium production [5][6] - EGA and RTX plan to conduct a feasibility study for a high purity gallium plant at EGA's Al Taweelah alumina refinery, which processes bauxite ore into alumina [4] - The development of gallium production aligns with the UAE's industrial growth strategy, Operation 300bn, creating an additional revenue stream for EGA [6] Group 3: Company Profiles - Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) is the world's largest producer of "premium aluminium" and the largest industrial company in the UAE outside the oil and gas sector [9][10] - EGA operates globally with a fully integrated production process, from bauxite mining to aluminium production and recycling [11] - RTX is the largest aerospace and defense company globally, with over 185,000 employees and projected sales exceeding $80 billion in 2024 [12]