Prime Highlights
- Star Paper Mill launched its AED200 million recycled containerboard plant in Abu Dhabi.
- The facility will recycle up to 80 percent of locally sourced waste paper.
Key Facts
- The KEZAD plant can produce 135,000 tonnes of recycled containerboard annually.
- Star Paper Mill aims to serve the growing UAE and GCC packaging markets.
Background
Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, inaugurated Star Paper Mill’s AED200 million recycled containerboard manufacturing facility in KEZAD, Abu Dhabi, during Make it in the Emirates 2026. The launch marks the start of full operations at the new plant.
Star Paper Mill said the project supports the UAE’s industrial growth plans, strengthens local manufacturing and advances the country’s circular economy goals. The company added that the facility will convert locally collected waste paper into recycled containerboard used to make corrugated boxes and paper packaging products.
The plant covers 90,000 square metres and has an annual production capacity of 135,000 tonnes. It will supply jumbo reels for downstream converters serving the growing packaging industry in the UAE and wider Gulf region.
The company said the facility will recycle up to 80 % of waste paper sourced within the UAE. This is expected to reduce pressure on landfills and improve domestic recycling capacity. Management added that local sourcing of waste paper would also reduce dependence on imported raw materials and support national self-sufficiency goals.
Star Paper Mill said the timing of the launch matches rising demand for packaging products across the UAE and GCC markets, which remain key export regions for the company.
Industry estimates show the UAE paper packaging market is valued at around $3.8 billion and could exceed $6 billion by 2033. The corrugated packaging segment alone is estimated at $1.3 billion. Across the GCC, the paper packaging market is valued at more than $9 billion and is expected to reach $13 billion by 2033.
The company said the new facility will help meet growing regional demand while supporting sustainability targets through large-scale recycling and local production.
