Saudi Aluminum Demand Could Reach 1.8 Million Tonnes by 2030 

Saudi aluminum demand could rise to as much as 1.8 million tonnes a year by 2030 as construction linked to the 2034 FIFA World Cup and other major projects increases industrial consumption. Current demand is around 1 million tonnes annually, according to Ahmad Al-Alshaikh, Maaden’s executive vice president for its Aluminum Business Unit. 

The Saudi aluminum demand growth estimate by 2030 was shared at the Fastmarkets International Aluminum Conference in Budapest. Al-Alshaikh said demand could reach at least 1.6 million tonnes annually by 2030 and potentially double within five to seven years. 

The Saudi aluminum demand growth by 2030 is being supported partly by preparations for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The construction of 15 new stadiums for the tournament is expected to contribute to aluminum consumption, alongside major exhibitions and other infrastructure activity. 

Maaden currently produces about 780,000 tonnes of primary aluminum each year and around 1 million tonnes of cast metal. About 85 percent of its production is sold in the domestic market, highlighting the importance of the Saudi market to its aluminum operations. 

The projected increase in Saudi aluminum demand by 2030 comes as the Kingdom expands industrial activity beyond traditional energy sectors. Aluminum is used across automotive, aerospace, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, making it an important material for the country’s wider industrial plans. 

Maaden’s aluminum business also recorded a strong second quarter. Revenue rose 49 percent year on year to $1.01 billion, while EBITDA more than doubled to $411 million. Realized aluminum prices increased 51 percent to $3,915 per tonne, with quarterly production reaching 242,000 tonnes. 

The Saudi aluminum industry expansion is also tied to downstream manufacturing. Maaden’s integrated complex at Ras Al-Khair remains a key industrial asset as the Kingdom develops more domestic aluminum capacity. 

The Saudi aluminum industry expansion is expected to continue alongside major construction and industrial projects. In January, initial terms were signed with Red Sea Aluminum Holdings for an integrated aluminum complex in Yanbu. 

The Saudi aluminum demand growth by 2030 will ultimately depend on the pace of construction, industrial investment and infrastructure development, including projects connected to the 2034 World Cup.