Dubai-based Emirates Biotech has selected SAMSUNG E&A – a South Korean specialised EPC company – as the contractor for its upcoming Polylactic Acid (PLA) production plant in the United Arab Emirates. The strategic project, officially named Falcon PLA Project, will deliver a cutting-edge facility producing a biodegradable and environmentally friendly plastic alternative, solidifying Emirates Biotech’s commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation.
With an unrivalled track record of bringing these innovative but complex industrial projects to fruition, SAMSUNG E&A has been selected as the sole partner for this project. In that role, the Seoul-headquartered company will oversee all engineering, procurement, and construction work for the PLA project, ensuring that it progresses smoothly and aligns with the planned schedule and budget. The pre-EPC contract, covering the initial phase of the collaboration, was signed on 14 April 2025 at Emirates Biotech’s Dubai headquarters.
While Emirates Biotech recently selected Swiss firm Sulzer as the technology provider for its PLA plant, SAMSUNG E&A will ensure that Sulzer’s technology and proprietary equipment will be integrated flawlessly into the PLA production facility.
The plant, expected to be operational in early 2028, will be located in Abu Dhabi’s KEZAD Free Zone, the industrial area with access to state-of-the-art transportation infrastructure including the deep sea port of Khalifa. The facility will be constructed in two phases, each with an annual production capacity of 80,000 tonnes. Once completed, it will be the largest PLA production facility in the world.
Emirates Biotech CEO Marc Verbruggen says, “Selecting SAMSUNG E&A as our contractor is another significant step toward making our vision a reality. With their extensive expertise in delivering world-class engineering projects, we are confident that this collaboration will ensure the seamless integration of technology into our PLA production facility. The Falcon PLA Project will not only set new benchmarks for scale and efficiency but will also play a key role in providing industries with a viable, sustainable alternative to fossil-based plastics. As we move closer to construction, we are excited to see our plans take shape and contribute to the global shift toward a circular economy.”
Hong Namkoong, President and CEO, SAMSUNG E&A, adds, “With our extensive project experience and advanced design technology, we continue to achieve outstanding results in high-value engineering. We are honoured that Emirates Biotech has entrusted us with the Falcon PLA Project, and are fully committed to delivering it successfully. SAMSUNG E&A is honoured to expand its customer base and enter a new market. This achievement strengthens its competitive position for future projects with Emirates Biotech, marking its entry into the growing eco-friendly plastics sector.”
Emirates Biotech aims to accelerate the transition from fossil-based plastics to renewable, biodegradable alternatives, ensuring industries worldwide have access to high-performance, environmentally responsible solutions.
