Canada's SNC Lavalin, which is already working on the seventh potline expansion, is close to completing the feasibility study for potlines eight and nine, which will each have capacity of about 300,000 t/y. The feedstock is likely to be supplied by Abu Dhabi-based Dolphin Energy. The expansion will take total capacity at the Jebel Ali site to about 1.3 million t/y.

SNC has been heavily involved in recent Dubal expansions. It was awarded in August the engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) contract for the estimated $285 million potline 7b, which will add 100,000 t/y of capacity to the seventh potline. It was also working on the original expansion of the seventh potline.

Neighbouring Abu Dhabi is also planning to build a grassroots smelter in the emirate. The project, which is likely to be located at Taweelah or Ruwais, is expected to have capacity of 500,000-600,000 t/y. The government is understood to be in discussions with foreign partners to participate in the new smelter.