The Middle East is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse for data centres, driven by surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. This growth is fueling unprecedented expansion for Swedish safety seal manufacturer Roxtec. Based in Dubai, Roxtec Middle East FZE is scaling its operations from involvement in six data centre projects in 2023 to over 20 projects planned by 2025, including collaborations with major global players and AI hyperscalers.
This surge follows a pivotal agreement allowing the UAE to import large volumes of US-made AI chips, announced during President Trump’s recent visit to the region. Further strengthening this momentum are partnerships between the UAE and major American firms aimed at developing the AI sector.
A landmark deal between the UAE and the USA includes plans to build the world’s largest AI campus outside the United States. Spanning 10 square miles in Abu Dhabi, this campus will be powered by a 5GW data centre and operated jointly by American companies alongside Emirati firms G42 and MGX. The initiative also involves collaborations with tech giants such as Nvidia, OpenAI, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft, positioning the Gulf region as a future global AI leader.
Roxtec, headquartered in the Jebel Ali Freezone, is actively engaged in discussions with companies developing next-generation High-Performance Computing (HPC) data centres designed for intensive AI and Big Data workloads.
As a global leader in cable and pipe transit systems, Roxtec manufactures specialized seals that protect data centres from fire, water ingress, air leakage, and electromagnetic interference—all critical factors in preventing costly outages. The data centre sector now accounts for over 25% of Roxtec’s infrastructure business sales, with expectations to reach 50% within 18 months.
Currently, Roxtec is involved in projects across the UAE, Qatar, and Oman, including new builds and refurbishment efforts. The region’s growing data centres demand high energy efficiency to support AI supercomputers, while climate challenges such as sandstorms, heavy rainfall, and flash floods are driving the need for resilient sealing solutions. Additionally, the shift toward modular construction methods is supporting Roxtec’s expansion as a vital supply chain partner.
To meet rising market demands, Roxtec is launching two new products for the Middle East: FlamePlus, a sealing system designed for modular and prefabricated construction, and the Roxtec Software Suite, a digital platform for lifecycle management of cable and pipe transits. The company has also appointed a dedicated data centre operations manager based in Abu Dhabi.
Mohammed Abrar, Roxtec’s Business Unit Head of Infrastructure and Industry, commented, “We are witnessing massive demand fueled by AI growth, increased capacity requirements, and substantial investments creating a thriving ecosystem. This expansion is accelerating due to strong US collaboration and regional government efforts focused on AI opportunities.”
Abrar added, “We’re partnering with numerous tech giants, including global hyperscalers. The pace of development is remarkable, with new data centres progressing from design to completion in as little as 11 months. Their energy efficiency needs drive high demand for airtight sealing to prevent cooling losses.”
He explained the critical role of liquid cooling in HPC data centres, which necessitates managing numerous pipes. “Operators emphasize reliable seals to efficiently manage cooling and recycle excess heat. Our advanced cable and pipe transit solutions are increasingly indispensable.”
Highlighting environmental factors, Abrar noted, “Climate change and extreme weather events like sandstorms and flash floods heighten the need for robust sealing solutions. We are supporting clients in safeguarding their infrastructure from these growing threats.”
He concluded, “Our comprehensive expertise—from design and supply to installation, training, and inspection—gives us a competitive edge. As global reliance on data centres and AI expands, resilient infrastructure becomes crucial. The trend toward modular construction also fuels demand for our specially designed, fast-installation solutions.”
Roxtec’s strategic positioning amid the Middle East’s AI-driven data centre surge marks it as a key player in securing critical infrastructure supporting the region’s technological future.
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