Rooted in the ancient textile traditions of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Persia, the Middle East’s textile industry is now a modern and dynamic sector, with countries like Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE investing heavily to expand and attract international investment.
Egypt’s Investment Surge
Egypt is a global leader in high-quality cotton, with government initiatives aimed at modernising the textile industry to enhance exports. The Cotton and Textile Industries Holding complex in Mahalla al-Kubra stands out as a significant project, featuring a vertically integrated plant capable of producing 50 million garments annually. Mahmoud Esmat, Egypt’s public business sector minister, emphasizes that numerous investment opportunities are open for private sector partnerships to further boost production and competitiveness.
Iran’s Growth Potential
Iran’s textile sector, historically significant and a major job provider, has substantial export potential. In 2023, textile exports reached $560 million, primarily targeting Iraq, Afghanistan, and Russia. With government support, the sector could increase exports significantly. Shojaeddin Emami Rauf, secretary of the Association of Iran Textile Industries (AITI), asserts that Iran’s textile industry could triple or quadruple exports with the right investments in modern weaving and spinning technologies.
Jordan’s Access to the US Market
Jordan’s Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZs) enable duty-free textile exports to the US, boosting the country’s garment sector. With exports exceeding $2 billion in 2023, the industry benefits from a 10-year economic plan that aims to create jobs, raise incomes, and attract sustainable technologies.
Saudi Arabia’s Billion-Dollar Commitment
Saudi Arabia’s textile sector has received over $1 billion in investment, spanning 19 industrial cities. The Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) is also developing smart warehousing solutions in Jeddah to enhance logistics. Majed Al-Argoubi, MODON CEO, notes that the sector’s attractiveness is enhanced by the country’s domestic raw materials and its strong synthetic fibres production.
UAE’s Strategic Position
The UAE’s free zones, like Jebel Ali, provide tax incentives and modern infrastructure, positioning the country as a key textile and apparel hub. With trade value reaching $168.6 billion in 2023, the UAE attracts both luxury fashion brands and high-end textile products.
Future Outlook
As the textile industry advances across the Middle East, investments in sustainable technologies are poised to strengthen the sector, driving industrialisation, job creation, and regional economic growth.
