Addressing the industry's biggest challenges
Welcoming delegates, Thomas Armstrong, Managing Director of Cemtech Conferences, noted that bringing Cemtech MEA to Riyadh represented a significant milestone for the conference series, placing the event at the heart of a market undergoing rapid transformation through major infrastructure investment, capacity expansion and an increasing focus on decarbonisation.
Across two days of technical presentations and panel discussions, delegates examined many of the key issues facing cement producers throughout the Middle East and Africa.
The conference opened with a global market outlook from Philippe Richart, CEO of the World Cement Association, who explored the current state of the international cement industry, highlighting the combined pressures of overcapacity, rising costs and the drive towards lower-carbon production.
The regional focus continued with presentations examining the outlook for the Saudi cement market, alternative fuels, supplementary cementitious materials, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, emissions reduction, waste heat recovery and process optimisation. Technical case studies demonstrated how producers are improving kiln stability, reducing energy consumption and lowering CO2 emissions while maintaining operational performance.
Strong exhibition and networking programme
Alongside the conference, a large exhibition featured leading suppliers showcasing the latest equipment, digital solutions and services for cement manufacturing. The exhibition remained a focal point throughout the event, encouraging valuable discussions between producers and technology providers while highlighting innovations that can support the industry's transition towards more sustainable production.
Delegates also enjoyed extensive networking opportunities during coffee breaks, lunches and the conference gala dinner, reinforcing Cemtech's reputation as a meeting place where lasting business relationships are formed.
Looking ahead
Cemtech MEA 2026 demonstrated the growing momentum behind decarbonisation and digital transformation across the Middle East and Africa's cement sector. With Saudi Arabia continuing to invest heavily in infrastructure and industrial development under Vision 2030, the conference provided a timely platform for sharing knowledge, showcasing innovation and strengthening collaboration throughout the regional cement community.
International Cement Review would like to thank all delegates, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and partners for contributing to another successful Cemtech conference, and looks forward to welcoming the industry again at future Cemtech events.
Exclusive visit to Yamama Cement
The conference concluded with an exclusive technical visit to Yamama Cement Company, one of Saudi Arabia's leading producers. Delegates toured the company's state-of-the-art integrated cement plant located approximately 80km east of Riyadh, gaining first-hand insight into one of the region's most advanced cement manufacturing facilities.
