This article is based on an official press release from AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings.

AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings Announces New Dubai Facility to Strengthen Middle-East Support

AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings has officially announced plans to launch a new color blending and distribution facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. According to a press release issued on January 29, 2026, the new site is scheduled to become operational in the second quarter of 2026. The facility is designed to serve as a regional hub, offering locally blended and stocked coating solutions tailored to the specific requirements of commercial aviation operators, Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) organizations, and OEMs across the Middle East.

The expansion aims to reduce lead times and improve efficiency for regional partners by localizing the supply chain. The Dubai facility will feature automated and precision control processes to ensure color accuracy consistent with AkzoNobel’s global standards. Key capabilities will include the local blending of the company’s flagship coating systems, including Aerobase, Aerodur 3001, and Eclipse colors.

Operational Capabilities and Strategic Goals

The primary objective of the new Dubai site is to provide streamlined access to essential aerospace materials. In addition to on-site color blending, the facility will stock a comprehensive inventory of primers, topcoats, and thinners. By positioning these resources within the region, AkzoNobel intends to support the operational planning of Airlines and MROs, minimizing the downtime associated with waiting for materials to be shipped from Europe or North America.

Xavier Rijmenans, EMEA Sales Director for AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings, emphasized the importance of this investment for the company’s long-term strategy in the region.

“We work closely with established partners in the Middle East who rely on our trusted solutions. By expanding our color blending and distribution capabilities, we are not only reducing lead times but also strengthening regional support, helping customers to scale their operations and respond to increasing demand in the region.”

Xavier Rijmenans, EMEA Sales Director, AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings

Rijmenans further noted that this operational model has already been proven effective across Asia, Europe, and North America, suggesting that Middle Eastern customers will see immediate benefits in terms of access to high-quality, locally blended coatings.

AirPro News Analysis: Regional Context and Market Dynamics

The following section contains analysis by AirPro News based on industry data and background research.

The timing of AkzoNobel’s expansion aligns with a period of significant growth in the Middle East aviation sector. With major fleet expansions underway, including the aggressive entry of Riyadh Air and continued growth from legacy carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways, the demand for MRO services is projected to rise sharply. By establishing a local blending facility, AkzoNobel is positioning itself to compete more effectively against rival Manufacturers such as PPG Aerospace and Sherwin-Williams, both of which maintain active footprints in the region.

Furthermore, the specific product focus addresses the unique environmental challenges of the Middle East. The region’s high solar irradiance and prevalence of sandstorms require high-performance coatings capable of resisting erosion and UV degradation. Localizing the production of systems like Aerobase and Aerodur allows AkzoNobel to respond rapidly to the maintenance needs of aircraft subjected to these harsh “desert factor” conditions.

This move also occurs against the backdrop of broader corporate shifts. In November 2025, AkzoNobel and Axalta Coating Systems announced a definitive agreement to merge. While the Dubai facility is an AkzoNobel initiative, it strengthens the company’s infrastructure ahead of the expected transaction close in late 2026 or early 2027.

Technical Focus: Featured Product Lines

According to the press release and technical specifications, the new facility will focus on three primary product lines, each serving distinct roles in aircraft maintenance and livery application:

• Aerobase: A base coat/clear coat system designed for durability and speed. It is favored for its opacity and color retention, which can reduce the number of layers required, thereby saving weight and application time.
• Aerodur 3001: A specialized base coat known for its chemical resistance, often utilized in systems requiring protection against hydraulic fluids and harsh aviation chemicals.
• Eclipse: A polyurethane topcoat widely used in both commercial and general aviation for its high gloss retention and resistance to staining and UV damage.

AkzoNobel has invited industry stakeholders to learn more about the new facility at MRO Middle East 2026. The team will be available at Booth 1620 to discuss how local stock availability can assist in reducing turnaround times.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new Dubai facility open?

The facility is scheduled to become operational in Q2 2026.

What specific services will be available?

The site will offer local color blending for specific coating lines and stock primers, topcoats, and thinners to ensure faster delivery times.

Where can I find the AkzoNobel team at MRO Middle East 2026?

The team will be located at Booth 1620.

Sources

• AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings
• Aviation Week & MRO Network (Market Data)