Pioneers at Heart, Partners in Growth
To be a pioneer requires vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. As we celebrate Henkel’s 150th anniversary in 2026, we look back at a legacy built on innovation, steadfast responsibility, and purposeful growth. Our guiding purpose to be "Pioneers at heart for the good of generations" has shaped our global journey. Yet, it is within the rapid, transformative evolution of the GCC where this purpose truly comes to life.
Growing alongside a region in transformation
Henkel’s story is deeply woven into the milestones of the world and the region. We have always believed that when society takes a step forward, we must be there to support, enhance, and sustain that progress.
When the world illuminated with the first practical electric lightbulbs in 1879, our founder Fritz Henkel was already busy in his laboratory, creating new formulations, innovating everyday solutions, and laying the groundwork for a global enterprise.
When the United Arab Emirates proudly formed in 1971 to set a bold new vision for the Middle East, Henkel was actively expanding its international footprint to bring specialized industrial solutions, advanced technologies, and essential consumer goods to emerging markets.
When the Gulf Cooperation Council was established in 1981 to unite the region, Henkel was right there. By 1982, we helped launch the beloved regional detergent brand Dac as an early joint venture, creating a foundational presence to serve local households.
When the internet revolutionized global communication and how the world interacts in 1990, we were busy forging vital physical connections in Saudi Arabia. In 1991, Henkel partnered with the Saudi Al-Bawani Group to manufacture adhesives locally, a commitment that later paved the way for the formal foundation of Henkel GCC in Dubai by 1998.
Building the Future across the GCC
Adapting to the unique demands of the Middle East is the cornerstone of our regional strategy, and our innovations form the invisible backbone of the region's most iconic achievements.
When the Burj Khalifa pierced the sky in 2010 to redefine architectural possibilities, Henkel was there. We supplied our advanced Henkel Polybit leveling compounds and industrial adhesives to ensure the floors of the world's tallest building were constructed with flawless strength, exceptional durability, and uncompromising quality.
When the UAE unveiled the Museum of the Future to showcase tomorrow's possibilities, Henkel was there. We provided the cutting-edge Henkel Polybit construction solutions required to protect its structural integrity, secure its foundations, and help bring its gravity defying architecture to life.
When Qatar prepared to welcome the world for the 2022 FIFA world cup and rapidly expand its national infrastructure, Henkel was there. We provided advanced waterproofing and structural solutions through Henkel Polybit for vital projects like the iconic Lusail Stadium, the sprawling Doha Expressway, and the highly advanced Gold Line Metro.
Doha Corniche, Qatar
Lusail Stadium, Qatar
When Kuwait launched ambitious national development initiatives to elevate its public services and transportation hubs, Henkel was there. We supplied resilient construction technologies to support the Sabah Al Salem University, the New Maternity Hospital, and the expansive Kuwait New Airport Terminal 2.
Our dedication to building the GCC’s physical infrastructure is matched only by our commitment to enriching the daily lives of its people through our Consumer Brands. Understanding the distinct cultural and region-specific needs of our consumers has always been a priority. This deep regional insight drove the 2008 launch of Persil Abaya Shampoo. As demand grew, so did our investments in local communities, local talent, and local manufacturing. In 2024, this commitment was reinforced when we opened our Beauty Care production facility in Riyadh to produce brands such as Pert directly within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
For the Good of Generations
Being pioneers at heart means taking definitive action for the future. We focus our efforts on sustainability, continuous education, and advanced research.
When the UAE sent its first astronaut to space in 2019 to look toward the stars, Henkel was there opening the world’s largest permanent Forscherwelt facility at Dubai’s Children’s City. We built this interactive science center to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of scientific explorers.
When the world gathered for Expo 2020 Dubai to envision a better tomorrow, Henkel was there. We partnered with the German Pavilion to host the international Forscherwelt educational initiative on the global stage, welcoming more than one thousand children to engage directly in hands-on, sustainable, and forward-thinking science experiments.
Our environmental milestones are equally significant. In 2023, our Henkel Polybit facility in Dammam achieved full circularity for production waste. By 2025, our Umm Al Quwain facility’s Zero Liquid Discharge framework became a shining example of regional manufacturing excellence, environmental stewardship, and industrial efficiency.
As we stand in 2026, Henkel’s footprint in the GCC is a true testament to purposeful growth. With over 800 employees, more than seven advanced facilities, and a thriving innovation ecosystem in Dubai, we continue to build on our century and a half of history. Whatever the next great milestone may be, Henkel will be there, working tirelessly for the good of generations to come.
