Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing
Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing is the MAHY Khoory Group’s dedicated recycled containerboard manufacturing facility, located in Abu Dhabi. Established in 2017, Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing operates as a fully integrated mill converting 100% recovered wastepaper into high-quality Test liner and Fluting Medium for the packaging industry.With an average production capacity of approximately 690 tonnes per day, the mill operates in compliance with leading environmental, technical, and regulatory standards. Situated within ICAD III, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art production lines and benefits from continuous technology upgrades, ensuring operational efficiency and product consistency aligned with international benchmarks.
Our Mission
To manufacture high‑quality recycled containerboard that drives sustainable packaging solutions across the region. Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing is committed to transforming 100% recovered wastepaper into reliable, eco‑friendly products through advanced technology, operational excellence, and responsible resource management—supporting the MAHY Khoory Group’s vision of circular manufacturing and environmental stewardship.
Our Vision
To be the Middle East’s benchmark for sustainable containerboard production by leading in innovation, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing aims to strengthen regional self‑sufficiency in recycled paper, expand the use of recovered fibre, and continuously advance manufacturing practices that contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
Products and Capabilities
Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing produces a comprehensive range of recycled containerboard products, engineered to meet the needs of packaging converters in both regional and international markets. The product portfolio includes The mill also offers customized paper specifications, ensuring consistent quality, strength, and performance tailored to customer requirements.
Al Dhafra Paper ManufacturingRecycled Containerboard Manufacturing & Industrial Operations
Market Reach
Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing supplies packaging manufacturers across the United Arab Emirates and the wider Middle East, with products also reaching selected international markets. Alongside Union Paper Mills in Dubai, the facility plays a critical role in ensuring regional self-sufficiency in recycled containerboard production.
Innovation and Continuous Advancement
Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing maintains a strong focus on technological advancement, regularly upgrading fibre processing equipment and embracing digital optimization. Through collaboration with global technology partners and industry specialists, the mill continuously enhances product performance, cost efficiency, and environmental outcomes—maintaining its position at the forefront of sustainable paper manufacturing in the Middle East.
Infrastructure and Technology
The Abu Dhabi facility is equipped with advanced paper manufacturing infrastructure, including high-capacity pulpers, continuous fibre processing systems, modern winders, and fully automated packing lines. Digital control systems and real-time quality monitoring ensure production stability and operational efficiency.
Leadership and Management
Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing is managed by experienced professionals with deep expertise in paper manufacturing and industrial operations. Leadership at the mill emphasizes operational discipline, safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement, in line with the Group’s approach to managing its technical and manufacturing businesses.
Al Dhafra Paper Mills Overview
Background and Development
The foundation of Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing builds on the Group’s long-standing expertise in paper recycling, which began in 1987 with the establishment of Union Paper Mills, one of the earliest paper recycling operations in the GCC.
Leveraging decades of technical and operational experience, Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing was established to address the growing regional demand for sustainable containerboard solutions. The development of the facility reflects the MAHY Khoory Group’s long-term growth philosophy: expansion through innovation, circular manufacturing, and environmental stewardship.
Operations and Integration
Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing operates as part of an integrated recycling and manufacturing ecosystem within the MAHY Khoory Group.
- Works closely with Union Paper Mills and in-house waste collection operations
- Processes over 1,300 tonnes of recovered waste paper daily
- Partnership with Valmet to install advanced ceramic dewatering elements
These initiatives enhance machine efficiency, paper quality, and energy performance, reflecting the company’s commitment to operational excellence, continuous improvement, and innovation.
Strategic Importance to the Group
As the UAE’s second recycled containerboard mill, Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing represents a strategic pillar within the MAHY Khoory Group’s industrial portfolio.
- Secures stable supply of recycled paper for the Group’s packaging value chain
- Reinforces regional leadership in recycling and circular manufacturing
By transforming waste into high-value industrial raw material, the facility reflects the Group’s long-term vision for sustainable manufacturing and responsible industrial growth.
Quality and Regulatory Compliance
Quality assurance is embedded throughout the operations of Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing, supported by ISO-certified management systems and strict regulatory compliance.
- Adherence to environmental and industrial standards
- Comprehensive testing for strength, performance, and reliability
- Careful sorting, cleaning, and processing of recovered paper
These processes ensure contamination-free production and consistent output quality.
Environmental and Sustainability Performance
Sustainability is central to the operating model of Al Dhafra Paper Manufacturing, with 100% post-consumer wastepaper used as raw material.
- Reduces reliance on virgin raw materials
- Conserves natural resources
- Lowers energy and water consumption
- Significantly reduces landfill waste and carbon emissions
- Operates closed-loop water recycling systems
The mill also incorporates waste-heat recovery where feasible and actively supports community recycling initiatives that promote responsible waste diversion.