SABIC: A legacy of innovation and a future of possibilities

From making cars and planes more fuel-efficient to pioneering sustainable solutions for everyday products, SABIC has redefined what's possible in the petrochemical industry. With its roots firmly planted in Saudi Arabia, the company has grown into a global leader, shaping industries and driving innovation across multiple sectors.

A Vision Beyond Limits

Founded in 1976 by royal decree, SABIC was built on the idea of transforming resources into value. Initially, it focused on utilizing natural gas that would otherwise be flared, turning waste into wealth. Today, that same innovative spirit fuels its ambition to be the preferred world leader in chemicals. With a presence in over 140 countries and a workforce of nearly 31,000, SABIC has cemented itself as a critical player in the global economy.

Innovation at the Core

Innovation is more than a buzzword for SABIC—it's a commitment. Its Corporate Technology and Innovation (T&I) team, consisting of over 2,000 experts across 20 centers worldwide, leads the charge in developing sustainable, high-performance materials. Holding nearly 11,000 patents and pending applications, the company is not just keeping pace with industry trends—it's defining them.

A standout initiative is the TRUCIRCLE™ portfolio, which champions circular economy solutions. From consumer electronics to food packaging, these advanced recycled materials are already making an impact. Notably, SABIC collaborated with Microsoft to create the Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock, the first consumer electronics device featuring an enclosure made from ocean-bound plastic. Another key partnership with CJ CheilJedang led to the development of microwavable instant rice bowls incorporating 25% certified renewable polypropylene.

Driving Industry Transformation

SABIC's influence extends far beyond chemicals. It provides cutting-edge materials for automotive, construction, healthcare, and electronics, enhancing efficiency and performance. From lightweight polymers that improve vehicle fuel economy to durable packaging solutions, SABIC plays a pivotal role in modern manufacturing.

A Global Footprint with Local Impact

With principal corporate offices in Riyadh and major industrial operations in Al-Jubail and Yanbu, SABIC's presence spans continents. Its commitment to Asia dates back to the 1980s, and today, it employs over 3,000 people across China, India, Indonesia, and Australia, ensuring region-specific solutions that cater to diverse market needs.

Navigating Challenges with Resilience

Despite global economic slowdowns and inflation in 2023, SABIC generated SAR 141.5 billion (US$37.7 billion) in revenue and distributed SAR 11.4 billion (US$3.04 billion) in dividends to shareholders. By optimizing its portfolio and focusing on core assets, SABIC has maintained financial stability and positioned itself for long-term growth.

Sustainability and Responsibility

Beyond profitability, SABIC prioritizes environmental and social responsibility. It upholds stringent Environment, Health, Safety, and Security (EHSS) standards, ensuring safe operations and compliance with global regulations. Its commitment to sustainability was recognized when ChemSec's 2023 ChemScore report ranked it first among 50 global chemical companies for product stewardship.

The Road Ahead

Looking to the future, SABIC remains committed to innovation and sustainability. Whether through advanced materials, strategic partnerships, or bold sustainability initiatives, SABIC continues to shape industries and enable progress.

SABIC's T&I division plays a key role in this vision, driving advancements in materials, processes, and applications. With a team of over 2,000 employees across 20 global research centers, the company is positioned at the forefront of materials science.

Whether through sustainable product innovations, collaborative partnerships, or a relentless commitment to excellence, SABIC is shaping the industries of today and tomorrow. As it pioneers new frontiers in materials science and sustainability, the company remains dedicated to creating solutions that drive economic progress and environmental responsibility—truly embodying its mission of "Chemistry That Matters™."

For businesses, policymakers, and consumers alike, SABIC is more than a chemical company—it's a catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and a better tomorrow.