Watania Steel (WS) aims to expand production by adding new products to its existing portfolio. The Riyadh-based steelmaker will commission a 500,000 tonnes/year rebar and wire rod mill adjacent to its current production facility. This follows almost a year of extensive studies on Saudi Arabia’s demand trends and new product introduction.

Following commissioning, WS will exceed 750,000 t/y of rebar and wire rod capacity. Finished product is supplied to meet the ever-growing demand of Saudi Arabia as well as its neighbouring countries. The wire rod mill, equipped with the latest automation features, can roll wire rod sizes from 5.5mm to 16mm diameters and rebar in coil of 8-12mm, the firm tells Kallanish.

The new mill is expected to commence commercial production by the fourth quarter of 2023.

“Our expansion is a strategic decision to support and sustain our long-term goal. We strive to compete with steel manufacturing leaders and commit to high standards of quality and superiority by delivering continuous improvements to drive production performance,” comments Watania Steel co-founder and managing partner Jamil Al Saffaf.

WS was founded in 2008 to meet growing demand for steel products used in the kingdom’s construction sector. The firm produces billet and rebar ranging from 12-32mm in diameter, in grades 60 and 80. Ongoing modernisation and technical advancements allow WS to deliver its finished products for multi mega projects such as Diriyah Gate, Qiddiya and NEOM.