The UAE is one of the most concentrated markets for steel structure demand in the Middle East. Logistics hubs, data centres, industrial cities and renewable energy projects are breaking ground densely across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With 50°C heat, sharp thermal swings, dust and coastal salt air all present, the demands on movement control, corrosion class and sealing are higher than on conventional projects.
Designing for heat and dust
Summer extremes and large day-night temperature swings mean the structure must accommodate thermal movement, while a dusty environment demands sealed, abrasion-resistant joints and envelope details. Coastal projects must also handle salt-air corrosion.
- Expansion joints or sliding bearings on long runs to release thermal stress
- Sealed laps and water-stop details at roof and wall joints to keep dust out
- Ventilators and daylighting strips arranged for heat extraction while limiting dust ingress
Codes, certification and corrosion
We design to the Dubai Municipality building code and the Abu Dhabi International Building Code (IBC-based), and can also produce drawings under an owner-specified AISC or EN 1090 system. Coastal and industrial atmospheres are highly aggressive, so protection defaults to C4–C5.
- Structure: UAE code loads and seismic requirements, or dual AISC / EN 1090 documentation
- Corrosion: hot-dip galvanizing (≥85 µm) or galvanized plus weathering coating for salt and industrial air
- Envelope: rock wool or PU sandwich panels for insulation, with high-temperature rated roof coatings
- Certification: third-party inspection (SGS / BV) and owner-specified standards supported
Delivery and logistics: Shanghai to Jebel Ali or Khalifa Port
Detailing and fabrication take place at our Shanghai and Jiangsu plants. Knocked-down members ship to Jebel Ali or Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, with member marking, packing lists and erection drawings, plus customs and certification support.
- Detailing 7–10 days, fabrication 25–40 days, sea freight around 18–25 days
- FOB / CIF / DAP / DDP terms available
- Site supervision and phased deliveries can be arranged to match the project programme
Frequently asked questions
Which codes can you design to for UAE projects?
Does 50°C heat affect a steel structure?
How are certification and inspection handled?
Send your site, spans and use — you will get structural and corrosion recommendations for a high-heat environment within 48 hours.
Enquire now Browse all products