Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) has entered into an agreement with the German technology group Allied Heat Exchange AG (A-HEAT) to establish the largest heat exchanger production facility in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This significant development aims to address the increasing demand for energy-efficient cooling solutions, particularly for data centers that require advanced thermal management to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.

The state-of-the-art facility will cover 1.2 million square feet, with a built-up area of 400,000 square feet. It will be situated within DP World’s flagship free zone, Jafza, and will be operated by Güntner, the flagship brand of A-HEAT. Güntner has a legacy dating back to 1931 in Munich and is recognized as a global leader in heat transfer technology.

This new facility is expected to function as a key production and distribution hub. By localizing production, A-HEAT intends to improve its supply chain efficiencies, allowing for quicker and more flexible deliveries across the GCC, India, China, Africa, and Asia. The agreement was signed during the World Government Summit in Dubai, with notable attendees including His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DP World, and Hubert Spegel, Chairman at A-Heat.

The rising growth of data centers, fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence and cloud computing, has created a substantial need for energy-efficient cooling solutions. Cooling systems remain one of the largest consumers of power within IT infrastructure, making high-performance heat exchangers critical for improving efficiency and lowering energy consumption.

Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC, stated that the agreement with A-HEAT highlights Jafza’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainable industrial growth. He emphasized that the development aligns with the ‘Operation 300bn’ initiative under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 strategy, which aims to position the UAE as a preferred hub for industrial innovation. The build-to-suit approach ensures that A-HEAT will have a facility tailored to its operational requirements.

Hubert Spegel, Executive Board Member at A-Heat, remarked that this milestone is a significant advancement in their commitment to both the Middle East and global markets. He noted that the collaboration with DP World and Jafza exemplifies A-HEAT’s dedication to providing advanced and energy-efficient cooling solutions, emphasizing that the facility will be a crucial production and distribution center, reinforcing their leadership in the heat exchange industry.

As part of this initiative, Güntner will produce its most advanced heat exchangers using natural refrigerants like CO₂ and ammonia to enhance energy-efficient cooling. The facility will also manufacture aicore™️ smart control solutions, which are designed to optimize cooling systems by dynamically adjusting operations to reduce energy use by up to 30%. When combined with hydroBLU™️ technology, these systems aim to maximize the natural cooling effect of evaporation while balancing electricity and water usage, potentially cutting water consumption by up to 90%. Additionally, cutting-edge technology currently being optimized by Güntner’s R&D will also be produced at the new facility.

With production facilities across four continents and offices in over 34 countries, A-HEAT continues to expand its global presence, delivering high-performance cooling solutions to key markets around the world.