Global roots, regional vision (1873 →)
Since our start in 1873, we have strived to find new, innovative solutions to society's challenges. We started by supplying products for the railway expansion in the late 1800s and from there expanded into compressors, tools and rock drills needed to industrialize the world. Today, we hold world-leading positions in many of the same industries, but also in completely new segments such as vacuum. Still, our purpose remains the same: creating a better tomorrow by empowering our customers to grow and drive society forward.
First steps in the Middle East (1970s–2000s)
Our journey in the Middle East began in the 1970s through regional business partners. Through the 1980s–1990s, Atlas Copco Group expanded its regional footprint via distributors and customer centers, building service capacity close to customers in energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.
By 1986, a direct presence was established in Saudi Arabia, and in 2002, Atlas Copco Services Middle East was founded in Bahrain as a hub to serve the wider Gulf. This laid the foundation for our growth in the region.
Establishing roots in the UAE (2006–2009)
The UAE became a key milestone in 2006 when we opened our first office in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi. This move marked the Group’s formal entry into the Emirates, bringing service and support closer to customers in vital sectors such as energy, construction, and manufacturing.
By 2009, operations expanded to Dubai’s Al Quoz industrial district, reinforcing accessibility to a growing customer base across the country.
Growth and expansion (2010–2014)
In October 2010, Atlas Copco Group officially inaugurated its UAE Headquarters in Al Quoz Industrial in Dubai, which quickly became a central hub for the UAE business and the Middle East region.
This period also saw major regional achievements, including securing one of the Group’s largest turnkey projects in Qatar in 2008 and recruiting the region’s first female manager in 2011.
By 2014, the Middle East operations had grown substantially, leading to the decision to relocate to new premises in Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), a modern facility aligned with international standards.
Consolidation and people (2015–2018)
By 2017, Atlas Copco Group employed more than 150 people across the Middle East, with a significant share based across the UAE. The workforce reflected diversity, long service, and strong female representation, highlighting the Group’s people-centered culture.
In 2018, Atlas Copco Group celebrated over three decades of continuous regional presence, with the UAE as a cornerstone of operations.
Who we serve in the Middle East region today and beyond
From its UAE base, Atlas Copco Group provides and services a broad portfolio—industrial air and gas compressors, generators, vacuum solutions, air treatment, construction equipment (mobile compressors, pumps, light towers, and power), and industrial assembly tools and solutions—delivered with lifecycle support and application expertise.
Additionally, the Group introduced Primax Pumps and Sykes / LEWA dewatering solutions, strengthening the Group’s offering in the region’s vital construction, water management, and infrastructure sectors.
Looking ahead
With nearly five decades of Middle East operations, two decades in the UAE, and more than 450 employees and 10 locations, Atlas Copco Group continues to invest in service capability, local talent, and sustainable, productivity-enhancing technologies, supporting customers in the region’ diversified economy and long-term industrial goals.
