UICF Launches Saudi Arabia’s First Gel Battery Plant: Powering a New Industrial Era

09 June 2025

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Saudi Arabia’s energy story is evolving and UICF is at the forefront.

With the launch of the Kingdom’s first-ever gel battery production plant, United Industrial Chemicals Factory (UICF) is shifting the power landscape from import-reliant to locally led. This move signals a new era of energy independence and industrial capability.

And it’s just the beginning.

Local Manufacturing: A Milestone for Saudi Industry

Until now, gel batteries, essential for backup systems, off-grid setups, and industrial power, were only available via imports, bringing delays and zero local control.

UICF’s facility changes that, offering:

  • Reliable, high-performance gel batteries made in Saudi Arabia

  • Faster, more secure local supply chains

  • Full control over quality and performance

This plant is more than a production line. It’s a milestone in industrial self-reliance and a step toward a future powered by Saudi capability.

Built for Performance: Engineering Batteries for Harsh Conditions

Imported gel batteries often fall short in the Kingdom’s climate. That’s why UICF designed its batteries specifically for the region’s demands.

Our batteries deliver:

  • Thermal stability in extreme heat

  • Long-lasting discharge cycles

  • Reliability in rugged, remote sites

Built with international best practices and local insight, these batteries undergo rigorous quality control to ensure they perform and endure where it matters most.

A Vision-Aligned Investment: Supporting Saudi Arabia’s 2030 Goals

1. Localizing a Critical Industrial Product

Used in telecom, solar, and industrial backup, gel batteries are now locally produced — reducing imports and enhancing national resilience.

2. Creating Skilled Manufacturing Jobs

Our plant demands high-skill roles in chemical engineering, QA, and automation, supporting Vision 2030’s workforce development goals.

3. Reducing Supply Chain Risk

By manufacturing locally, we eliminate delays, shipping bottlenecks, and overseas dependency making Saudi industry more responsive and agile.

UICF’s investment aligns with the Kingdom’s goal of a diversified, knowledge-driven economy.

From Importer to Innovator: R&D at the Core

UICF isn’t just producing, we're advancing the technology.

Our R&D team is focused on:

  • New formulations and additives for improved performance

  • More durable casing materials

  • Integrated monitoring systems for smart infrastructure

With full production control, we can innovate quickly, test thoroughly, and adapt products to evolving regional needs.

Why Gel Batteries? Why Now?

Gel batteries are maintenance-free, leak-proof, and ideal for deep-cycle use. As Saudi Arabia accelerates investment in solar, telecom, and industrial infrastructure, demand is growing fast.

These batteries also offer environmental benefits with longer lifecycles and easier recycling.

By launching domestic production, UICF provides:

  • Faster fulfillment for critical projects

  • Region-specific reliability

  • Local support and accountability

It’s not just about what we make it’s about how and where we make it, and the value it brings to the Kingdom.

Built to Scale: This Is Just the Start

This facility is designed to grow with demand. Future expansion includes:

  • New chemistries like AGM and lithium

  • Higher volumes for large contracts and export

  • Integration with smart grid and solar infrastructure

UICF plans to develop cross-sector partnerships and target regional markets like the GCC and North Africa. Our goal is not just scale, but strategic, sustainable growth.

We’re building for today’s needs and tomorrow’s energy future.

FAQ:

Q1: Why is UICF’s gel battery plant a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia?

It marks the first time gel batteries are being produced locally, shifting Saudi Arabia from a fully import-dependent market to a domestically equipped energy storage hub. This enhances industrial independence and reinforces the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.

Q2: What makes gel batteries different from other battery types?

Gel batteries use a silica-based electrolyte that provides excellent thermal stability, deep discharge capability, and maintenance-free operation. They’re especially suited for extreme environments, making them ideal for Saudi Arabia’s climate and industrial conditions.

Q3: How does local production benefit customers and industries in the region?

Local manufacturing means faster delivery times, greater product customization, improved technical support, and reduced reliance on international supply chains. Industries can now access reliable power solutions built specifically for their environment — without delays or compromises.

Q4: What industries stand to benefit most from these gel batteries?

Key sectors include telecom, solar energy, mobility infrastructure, off-grid installations, and industrial backup systems. Any application requiring high-reliability, deep-cycle power in harsh conditions will benefit significantly from this local innovation.

Q5: Is UICF planning to expand beyond gel battery technology?

Yes. The facility is built for scalability, with plans to diversify into other chemistries such as AGM and lithium-ion batteries. The long-term goal is to establish UICF as a leader in advanced energy storage across the region and beyond.