STRENGTH IN CEMENT, STRENGTH IN VISION:
STRENGTH IN CEMENT, STRENGTH IN VISION:
RIYADH CEMENT AND THE FUTURE OF SAUDI INDUSTRY
RIYADH CEMENT
PROJECT DIRECTED BY: ADEL MHIRI
As Saudi Arabia’s skyline rises rapidly in the wake of Vision 2030, one company is quietly, yet powerfully, reinforcing the nation’s foundations.
Riyadh Cement, under the leadership of CEO Shoeil Al-Ayed, is doing far more than producing a construction staple. It is building the materials, strategies and sustainability models that will help define the Kingdom’s future.
Founded to meet the demands of a growing capital, Riyadh Cement has evolved into a cornerstone of industrial resilience, market leadership and environmental consciousness. Speaking with Business Enquirer, Al-Ayed and Business Excellence Director Dr Mohammed Fouad offered deep insight into how the company is navigating complexity with clarity, and growth with responsibility.
While much of the global cement industry struggled with volatility following the pandemic, Riyadh Cement reported strong and consistent gains. In 2024, the company reached annual revenues of SAR 789.4 million, representing a 22.7 percent increase year-on-year. Dr Fouad attributes this to a combination of strategic resilience and booming local demand, particularly in and around Riyadh.
He explained that the capital has become a hotspot for major developments, fuelling construction activity and requiring suppliers like Riyadh Cement to evolve quickly. This growth, while promising, has required a laser-sharp focus on operational excellence, plant efficiency and supply chain agility.
At the heart of the operation are three production lines, each with its own function and philosophy. Lines One and Two were originally designed to produce 5,000 tonnes per day of grey cement. Through efficiency upgrades, both now exceed 6,000 tonnes. Notably, Line One is equipped to switch between grey and white cement production, depending on forecasted demand, making it a uniquely agile production unit in the Kingdom.
Line Three is smaller in capacity but no less strategic. It produces 1,000 tonnes of specialised white cement daily, a highspec product essential for architectural finishes and premium construction work. This line serves a niche but vital role in delivering quality to projects requiring precision. Together, these three lines enable the company to scale where needed, adapt to market fluctuations and innovate across product types.
Although the majority of its product is sold domestically, Riyadh Cement is actively looking beyond its borders. “We currently export only five percent of our white cement, primarily to GCC countries,” said Al-Ayed. “But we are targeting East Africa, which could increase exports to between 15 and 20 percent over the coming years.”
This expansion is not simply commercial, it aligns with the company’s broader vision of sustainability and regional integration. One of its most significant investments to date is the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) facility, a first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. In partnership with Turboden, the project will generate 13,000 kilowatts of electricity from waste heat, significantly reducing both carbon emissions and operational
Eng. Shoeil Jarallah Al Ayed Board Member & CEO
costs. The SAR 150 million investment is expected to be operational before the end of the year.
Beyond energy generation, Riyadh Cement has implemented a far-reaching sustainability framework that reflects the principles of Vision 2030. As Dr Fouad explained, the strategy spans environmental, social and governance (ESG) dimensions. On the environmental front, the company is committed to circular economy principles, partnering with other industries to repurpose byproducts and reduce national waste volumes.
Energy efficiency has been tackled with both technology and infrastructure upgrades. Traditional airlifts have been replaced with bucket elevators, cutting energy consumption significantly. Additionally, the company is optimising its clinker-to-cement ratio, reducing dependency on carbon-intensive components.
On the social side, Riyadh Cement has invested heavily in national talent. Over the past three years, more than 250 Saudi engineers and technicians have been hired and trained through its graduate development and localisation programmes. This commitment to human capital is not simply an HR initiative, it is a long-term strategy to build in-house capability and reduce dependence on external expertise.
Operationally, the company's Riyadh base provides a powerful geographic advantage. With most Vision 2030 mega projects located in or around the capital, Riyadh Cement enjoys proximity that allows faster delivery, lower logistics costs and closer coordination with clients and contractors. This has made the company a preferred supplier for large-scale developments and a trusted partner in ensuring quality and consistency.
Nonetheless, challenges remain. Chief among them are raw material security and the complexities of energy transition.
RIYADH CEMENT
Sustainable Profitability for the Cement Industry
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With over a century of innovation, Magotteaux has pioneered high-chromium alloys, composite materials, and patented solutions such as Expand, its longer-lasting vertical roller mill (VRM) components. These innovations extend wear part lifetimes, minimising unplanned downtime, maintenance costs, and capital expenditure. The result? Increased productivity and a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
Optimised grinding media and mill liners design from Magotteaux reduce specific energy consumption (kWh/ ton), while smart tools like MagoSense enable real-time mill monitoring. These systems enable operators to finetune parameters, reduce energy consumption, and increase throughput.
Beyond efficiency, Magotteaux’s supports sustainability. The MagoClass, our 4G dynamic air separator enhances cement strength by optimising particle size distribution. This enables reduced clinker content in the final product, lowering CO2 emissions from clinker production.
Magotteaux doesn’t just deliver products; it partners with cement producers through a three-step model: investigate, plan, and execute. This includes audits, tailored solutions, and continuous monitoring to ensure measurable gains over time. Combined with scrap buy-back programs and a firm commitment to circular economy principles, Magotteaux aligns technical excellence with environmental impact reduction.
As the cement industry transitions toward greener, more innovative production, Magotteaux provides the tools and expertise to thrive profitably and sustainably.
Thanking you in advance for your support and looking forward to your feedback.
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Single Reheat the Rankine Cycle
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Main Steam Pressure1.6~2.0MPa(a)
Reheated Steam Pressure0.4~0.6MPa(a) 3% increase in cycle efficiency
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Revolutionising Cement Efficiency
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The SRC adopts single reheat cycyle
Main Steam Pressure1.6~2.0MPa(a)
Reheated Steam Pressure0.4~0.6MPa(a) 3% increase in cycle efficiency
Generation of WHR Power
Smarter. Cleaner.
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Lower-resistance and High-efficency HRSG Boiler
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Enhance
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“WELCOME
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THE FUTURE
Sinoma EC introduces the 4th Generation Waste Heat Recovery (WHR) Power Generation System — an industry-defining innovation for the cement sector.
Single Reheat the Rankine Cycle
The SRC adopts single reheat cycyle
Main Steam Pressure1.6~2.0MPa(a)
Cooler Exhaust Gas
Closed Loop System
Reheated Steam Pressure0.4~0.6MPa(a) 3% increase in cycle efficiency
The residual air discharge to the chimney at 90-100℃ is returned to the grate cooler
The power generation increases6~7kWh/t.cl
The 4th Generation of Waste In Cement Industry
Lower-resistance and High-efficency HRSG Boiler
Adopts finned tubes
Enhance heat transfer
OF WASTE HEAT RECOVERY”
Designed with precision engineering and advanced automation, this breakthrough system transforms residual heat into reliable power, significantly reducing coal use, emissions, and operational costs.
Reduce boiler heat exchanger surface 30 % reduction in resistance 20% reduction in boiler weight
The4thGenerationofWasteHeatRecoveryTechnology
APS
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Evolution of WHR Technology (2004–2025):
APS
Intelligent Systems at Work
APS & APC: The Brains Behind the System
Digital O&M:
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• One-key cold & hot start-up
• Fully automatic operation
• Electric valve upgrades
• Expert-level control logic
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Visualizationofproductiondata
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RemotedeviceO&M Intelligentdataanalysis
Turbine DEH System Upgrade:
• Remote monitoring & control
• Real-time diagnostics
• Data visualisation & analysis
Upgradedtheoperatedvalvestoelectricvalves One-keystartandstopand fullyautomaticoperation ofsinglesystemandwholesystem
Adoptexpert-leveloptimizedcontrolsys. Reducemanualoperation
• Smart load adjustment
• Steam rolling & speed control
• Intelligent synchronisation
Shaping a Low-Carbon Future:
Sinoma Energy Conservation’s Drive for Efficiency in Cement Production
The cement industry, often described as the backbone of modern construction, is also one of the most energy-intensive sectors. Its heavy reliance on fossil fuels and energy-demanding production processes makes it a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. Against this backdrop, Sinoma Energy Conservation Ltd. has emerged as a leading force in rethinking how cement is produced, delivering innovative technologies that improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and pave the way for a more sustainable industrial future.
Sinoma helps cement producers improve efficiency and reduce emissions by various means. At the heart of its approach lies the integration of waste heat recovery (WHR) systems. By capturing and recycling the waste heat generated during cement production, traditionally lost to the environment, WHR systems convert that energy into electricity. This reduces reliance on coal or petroleum coke, improving overall energy utilisation while cutting emissions at scale. Alongside WHR, Sinoma is advancing the application of bio-energy and alternative fuels, encouraging cement producers to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as biomass. The company also envisions “Zero External Power Purchase Facilities,” where cement plants generate their own electricity through WHR, solar power, and wind turbines.
The impact of these solutions is measurable.
At Jiangshan South Cement Co., Ltd., Sinoma installed its fourth-generation WHR technology. This project is expected to save more than 71 million kWh of electricity annually, equivalent to cutting 22,000 tonnes of standard coal and reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 41,000 tonnes each year. At Malaysia’s CIMA Bahau Cement Plant, Sinoma’s WHR systems generate
up to 106 million kWh of electricity annually, translating into a CO2 reduction of more than 61,000 tonnes per year. Beyond environmental benefits, these projects also deliver substantial financial savings, reducing operational costs by lowering dependence on external electricity supplies. A critical innovation underpinning these achievements is Sinoma’s waste-air closed-cycle technology and low-resistance, high-efficiency pre-heater boiler, both of which improve heat capture and exchange efficiency. Together, these measures reduce the overall power consumption of cement kiln systems, offering a competitive edge for producers navigating rising energy costs and tightening environmental regulations.
Sinoma’s expertise extends beyond supplying equipment. As an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractor, the company offers comprehensive solutions that integrate seamlessly into diverse industrial settings. Each WHR system is customised according to the characteristics of the cement plant, optimising the placement and type of waste heat boilers based on the temperature and source of waste heat. In bio-energy, Sinoma has pioneered biomass gasification coupled with cement kilns. Here, biomass and hot flue gas from the bypass air-release system produce gas that is introduced into the decomposing furnace. The benefits are twofold: nitrogen oxide levels are reduced in the kiln system, and the share of biomass as an alternative fuel rises significantly.
Deploying WHR systems, however, is not without challenges. Cement production waste gas often contains large amounts of dust, which can impair boiler performance and shorten equipment lifespan. Sinoma has responded by developing a suite of anti-fouling and dust-
removal technologies. High-efficiency dust collectors filter gas before it enters the boilers, while optimised boiler designs, advanced heatexchange materials, and wear-resistant surfaces ensure long-term durability. These innovations are central to maintaining system reliability and maximising efficiency, allowing cement producers to embrace decarbonisation without sacrificing operational performance.
The company’s strategy aligns closely with both China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the country’s wider decarbonisation agenda. By exporting its engineering and equipment expertise, Sinoma has delivered projects across Asia, Africa, and beyond, helping countries along the Belt and Road reduce fossil fuel dependence while improving cement production efficiency. This approach not only strengthens international cooperation but also accelerates the global transition towards cleaner industry.
Cement demand is growing rapidly in developing markets, raising questions about how to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. Sinoma’s answer lies in the scalability of its technologies. Its WHR and bio-energy solutions can be tailored to cement plants ranging from 1,000 to more than 10,000 tonnes per day. Payback periods are typically just three to five years, a compelling prospect for operators seeking both environmental and economic returns. Moreover, the integration of solar and wind energy enhances the resilience of these systems. For example, a newly designed plant with a clinker production of 5,000 tonnes per day could operate with a power demand of around 19.5 MW. Sinoma’s WHR system could generate 7 MW, while solar and wind installations could add another 15–20 MW. Any remaining gap could be covered through biomass power,
creating a largely self-sufficient, low-carbon energy system. This flexible model enables fossil fuel substitution rates of 10–40%, depending on local availability of agricultural residues, municipal waste, or other renewable resources. Such adaptability is vital in supporting the global push towards carbon neutrality.
Looking forward, Sinoma is committed to increasing its investment in research and development to refine and expand its technologies. Future focus areas include improving the efficiency of WHR, raising the share of alternative fuels in cement kilns, and promoting entirely new processes with lowcarbon or even zero-carbon potential. Through its global project experience and technical advantages, the company aims to popularise low-carbon technologies worldwide and drive the cement industry towards a sustainable development path.
Cement will remain a vital material for global infrastructure, but its carbon footprint cannot be ignored. Sinoma Energy Conservation Ltd. is demonstrating that with the right technologies, waste heat recovery, bio-energy, and renewable integration, the industry can move decisively towards efficiency and sustainability. By aligning engineering expertise with national and global priorities, and by delivering measurable environmental and financial gains for its clients, Sinoma is positioning itself not only as a technology provider but also as a catalyst for transformation. In a sector often criticised for its environmental impact, Sinoma’s work proves that progress and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Visit: www.sinoma-ec.cn/en
Contact: zhangfei@sinoma-ec.cn
RIYADH CEMENT
“Securing sustainable substitutes for clinker is a critical priority,” said AlAyed. “Likewise, energy efficiency is not just about technology, it’s also about regulatory alignment and government support.”
To that end, the company is engaged in an energy transition programme with the Ministry of Energy to move away from crude oil and heavy fuel oil, in favour of natural gas and electricity from the national grid. This shift, while financially significant, is being subsidised by the government and represents a major step forward in decarbonising the company’s operations.
Digital transformation also features prominently in the company’s long-term strategy. “It’s one of the five pillars of our corporate agenda,” Al-Ayed said. Predictive maintenance, AI-driven optimisation, robotic laboratories and integrated ERP systems are already being deployed across the business. “We are embedding digital intelligence not just in equipment, but across maintenance, supply chain and customer service.”
In 2023, Riyadh Cement successfully passed its SIRI (Smart Industry Readiness
Index) assessment and is now pushing toward a fully integrated Industry 4.0 operational model. Innovations such as AI-enabled systems, carbon capture technologies and intelligent logistics platforms are on the horizon, representing a new frontier in smart industrial performance.
In an industry often criticised for its environmental impact, Riyadh Cement is actively rewriting the narrative. Its approach is holistic, addressing emissions, resource use, social inclusion and digital modernisation in one sweeping vision.
“We believe sustainability is not just a responsibility, it is a business imperative,” said Al-Ayed. “Whether it is through advanced technology, research and development, environmental innovation or talent development, our goal is to become the most resilient and responsible cement company in the region.”
As Saudi Arabia surges toward a future defined by smart cities, green infrastructure and industrial reinvention, companies like Riyadh Cement will be the ones turning blueprints into reality. Quietly, consistently and with a long-term vision, they are helping build not just structures, but the Kingdom’s future.
www.riyadhcement.com.sa
