Celebrating Five Decades of Brilliance: Jotun Marks 50 Years of Leadership in the UAE

Jotun, a global leader in paints and coatings, marks a significant milestone—50 years of shaping the architectural and visual identity of the United Arab Emirates. Since opening its doors in Rashidiya in 1975, Jotun has played a vital role in the country's design evolution, bringing vibrant colours and top-tier quality to some of the UAE’s most iconic landmarks. From the historic Dubai World Trade Centre and the iconic Burj Al Arab to the towering Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Metro, and the vivid visuals of Expo 2020, Jotun’s signature has been painted across the nation.

From Modest Beginnings to Major Milestones

In 2003, Jotun achieved a production volume of 28 million litres, prompting a move to a modern facility in Al Quoz Industrial Area, capable of producing 40 million litres annually. Over the last two decades, the company has grown alongside Dubai’s booming construction sector, weathering both its highs and lows. By 2024, Jotun had surpassed 100 million litres in production—a milestone reflecting an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% over 20 years.

Eyeing the Future with Strategic Expansion

Today, the UAE stands as one of Jotun’s strongest markets globally, with exports reaching more than 23 countries. Looking ahead, the company is targeting an annual growth rate of 8% over the next three years. To support this, Jotun plans to boost its production capacity to 145 million litres through targeted investments and enhanced operational efficiencies, underscoring its enduring commitment to the region’s growth and prosperity.

A Fusion of Scandinavian Precision and Local Aesthetics

Jotun’s success lies in its ability to merge Scandinavian innovation with a deep understanding of regional style and climate needs. Its product range—spanning decorative, protective, marine, and powder coatings—has not only defined appearances but also enhanced performance across various sectors. Through a skilled technical service team, pioneering offerings like colour consultation and the Colour Academy, and a growing line of eco-conscious paints, Jotun continues to influence how buildings in the UAE look, feel, and endure.

Kjetil Urheim, General Manager at Jotun UAE, commented: “Design is not static—it evolves with the people, the place, and the purpose. For five decades, we’ve had the privilege of helping shape the UAE’s built environment with protection, colours and innovation at the core.”

Building a Sustainable Tomorrow

In alignment with Dubai’s 2040 vision, Jotun’s sustainability journey—initiated in 2017 under its “GreenSteps” program—sets ambitious goals for the future. By 2030, the company aims to slash its carbon emissions by 50% and shift 70% of its energy usage to renewable sources. These efforts reinforce Jotun’s enduring philosophy: to create products that are not only beautiful and durable but also environmentally responsible.

A Trusted Partner for Generations

Over five decades, Jotun has become a go-to brand for homeowners, architects, developers, and contractors throughout the UAE. Its unique ability to combine Scandinavian expertise with local understanding has made it more than just a paint supplier—it has become an essential part of the nation’s construction and design landscape.

More Than Paint—A Living Legacy

Jotun’s impact on the UAE isn’t just visible—it’s tangible and lasting. Every colour tells a story, every surface speaks of quality, and every building reflects a legacy that spans generations. As it enters the next chapter, Jotun remains committed to enriching lives and environments, one brushstroke at a time.