The 15,340 sqm plant will use cutting-edge technology to recycle lithium batteries

Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, one of the largest operators of integrated and purpose-built economic zones and Witthal Gulf Industries have announced the signing of a 50-year land lease agreement for the establishment of a state-of-the-art plant in Taweelah, KEZAD.

Witthal Gulf Industries will invest AED 40M for the project that will establish the UAE’s first lithium battery recycling plant in KEZAD. As both KEZAD Group and Witthal Gulf Industries envision a sustainable future for industrial development, the collaboration is slated to create a robust infrastructure for responsible recycling of lithium batteries. The plant will leverage cutting-edge technology for recycling end-of-phase batteries used in manufacturing industries, particularly electric vehicles, solar farms and other renewable energy systems to recover valuable materials such as black mass, copper and aluminium, and produce sustainable alternatives.

Witthal Gulf Industries is part of Singapore-based Witthal Group and has a significant presence across the Middle East, Asia, and West Africa. The company stands at the forefront of the global commodities market, ethically sourcing and trading essential materials such as rubber, tyres, minerals, and lithium ore to fuel sustainable industrial growth and strengthen critical global supply chains.

HE Jamal Abdulla Mohammad Bin Abdulwahab Alsuwaidi, UAE Ambassador to Singapore said: “The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Singapore had the privilege to facilitate and host this important occasion, which reflects the deepening partnership between the UAE and Singapore in advancing sustainable development and manufacturing. The signing of the land lease agreement between Witthal Group and KEZAD Group represents a significant step towards the UAE’s strategic objectives under the Net Zero by 2050 initiative and the Circular Economy Policy. We commend all parties involved for their commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.”

Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities and Free Zones, AD Ports Group said: “Both KEZAD Group and Witthal Gulf Industries are driven by the same vision for sustainability. The partnership is based on a solid foundation that will provide the platform for innovation, and focus on technological advancements that contribute to sustainable industry growth in KEZAD. KEZAD Group is excited to facilitate and support a project that offers sustainable solutions for industry waste, and aligns with the UAE’s net zero goals.”Suresh Kumar Nalappa (Vijayendra), CEO, Witthal Gulf Industries said: “Witthal Gulf Industries is excited to start its journey in KEZAD. We are thrilled to be part of an ecosystem that only provides the best resources but also encourages collaboration and innovation. We are confident that with our shared goals for sustainability, we will continue to push boundaries, address market demands responsibly, and ignite a new era of growth for both parties.”

By addressing the critical need for responsible battery disposal, this initiative by Witthal Gulf Industries will contribute to the development of a circular economy. The recycling project will ensure the efficient reuse of resources, and minimise environmental impact by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.​