Bridging continents: Gerab National Enterprises powers the UAE–China trade partnership

As the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit unfolds in China, the China-UAE economic corridor emerges ever more prominently. In this context, Gerab National Enterprises LLC—headquartered in Dubai—is a standout exemplar of how the UAE's industrial resilience and global outreach are propelling Sino–Emirate cooperation into new frontiers.

Founded in 1977, Gerab has evolved into a premier stockist and bulk supplier of a vast array of piping solutions—seamless and welded pipes, fittings, flanges, valves, pumps, connectors, drill bits, and related accessories—for critical sectors including oil and gas, petrochemical, power, civil engineering, renewable energy, water desalination, HVAC, and the process industries. Over four decades later, Gerab's footprint spans more than 60 countries, underscoring its reach and reliability.

A pillar in the UAE–China trade relations

In the new wave of economic diplomacy between China and the UAE, Gerab plays both facilitator and catalyst. Its role expands beyond traditional supply—Gerab actively nurtures robust ties with manufacturers in China, securing quality products delivered in a timely and competitive manner.

Gerab's presence in China, through its regional office in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, embodies its commitment to strengthening regional trade ties. This strategic positioning enables Gerab to respond swiftly to project demands in China, the Middle East, and beyond and to collaborate seamlessly with Chinese EPCs and end clients.

Supporting Chinese industry in the GCC

Gerab has played a pivotal role in helping Chinese manufacturers expand into the Middle East. Since 2011, the company has successfully supported around 40 Chinese mills to secure end-user approvals across the GCC markets. This achievement has been vital in opening doors for Chinese producers to participate in large-scale oil, gas, and infrastructure projects in the region.

Alongside approvals, Gerab's significant procurement volumes from China (roughly 200,000 tons annually) have reinforced its long-standing commitment to Chinese economic growth. By creating pathways for Chinese mills and consistently sourcing from them, Gerab has contributed not only to its own supply chain strength but also to the broader economic development of China's industrial sector.

Capabilities that set Gerab apart

What distinguishes Gerab is its blend of extensive infrastructure, advanced service offerings, and unwavering quality standards:

• Gerab maintains large indoor and outdoor stocking areas in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq, ensuring swift bulk supply and logistics efficiency.

• Its certification pedigree—ISO standards applied since 1997, and UAE In-Country Value (ICV) certification—demonstrates its adherence to the highest quality and localization benchmarks.

• Clients across geographies testify to Gerab's delivery reliability, product expertise, and exceptional responsiveness, even during challenges like pandemic-related disruptions.

• Value-added services such as fabrication, coating and lining, pipe spooling, cold bending, machining, and structural fabrication further elevate Gerab from a supplier to an integrated solutions partner.

Championing China-linked global projects

Gerab has become a trusted partner to many Chinese EPC contractors, supporting them on projects both globally and, in particular, across the Middle East. These collaborations highlight Gerab's ability to bridge supply requirements, ensure timely deliveries, and provide complete solutions to complex project needs.

Moreover, Gerab has taken its story to China's premier oil and gas forums. At leading exhibitions such as CIPPE in Beijing, Gerab has showcased its capabilities, reinforcing its international reach and connecting with Chinese industry leaders. In Shanghai, at China Sourcing Summit on Petroleum & Petrochemical Equipment, Gerab's Vice President, China region, Ya Chen, –delivered a keynote on Strategic Supply Chain Management for the Energy Sector, which drew positive responses from Chinese EPCs and end users alike. These forums have reinforced Gerab's role as not only a supplier but also a knowledge partner, shaping the discourse on efficient and resilient supply chains.

Strengths driving Sino-Emirati trade momentum

Underpinning Gerab's appeal in the China–UAE trade nexus are four foundational pillars:

1. Global reach, local touch
With operations spanning over 60 countries and a regional office in China, Gerab blends global sourcing with local responsiveness. This ensures projects benefit from international expertise while being served with speed and precision locally.

2. Comprehensive product suite and valueadded services
From piping components to coatings and custom fabrication, Gerab offers an end-to-end suite that simplifies supply chains. Its wide range of products and solutions reduces the need for multiple vendors, making project execution smoother and more efficient.

3. Quality and reliability
Decades of ISO compliance, ICV certification, and an unmatched record of on-time delivery even during global disruptions build unwavering trust. Gerab has established itself as a name synonymous with dependability.

4. Strategic engagement and thought leadership
Participation in exhibitions, forums, and conferences across China positions Gerab as a market-savvy partner, not merely a supplier. Its consistent presence demonstrates commitment to deepening ties with the Chinese market and to contributing to discussions on supply chain transformation.

Linking UAE's vision with China's Belt and Road aspirations

The UAE has long positioned itself as a global trade and logistics hub. Its investments in infrastructure, ports, and free zones are aligned with China's Belt and Road Initiative, creating synergies that expand opportunities for companies like Gerab. As both nations chart ambitious economic pathways, Gerab's role is that of an enabler—ensuring that materials, technology, and solutions flow seamlessly between regions.

Gerab's ability to deliver reliable piping solutions supports China's growing presence in Middle Eastern energy and infrastructure projects. Conversely, its collaborations with Chinese EPCs bring innovation, scale, and efficiency to projects in the UAE and beyond. The result is a symbiotic relationship, strengthening both countries' ambitions for industrial growth, energy security, and sustainable development.

Commitment to the future

Looking forward, Gerab remains steadfast in its vision of being more than just a supplier. Its promise—"Your Business, Our Commitment"—reflects its philosophy of creating long-term partnerships built on trust, reliability, and shared growth. With strong foundations in the UAE and growing engagement in China, Gerab is poised to deepen its role in connecting the two nations' industrial and energy ecosystems.

From providing end-to-end solutions to ensuring the success of large-scale projects, Gerab exemplifies the UAE's commitment to global collaboration. As China and the UAE continue to reinforce their trade and strategic partnerships, Gerab National Enterprises stands ready—bridging continents, powering industries, and shaping the future of energy and infrastructure projects worldwide.