Ali Al-Baqali, CEO of Alba: Bahrain’s Aluminum Industry Leader Takes the Lead in ESG Advancements
Aluminum Bahrain BSC (Alba): Pioneering Sustainability and Economic Growth Under the Leadership of CEO Ali Al-Baqali”
Founded in 1971 as a 120,000 tons per annum smelter, Aluminum Bahrain BSC – widely known as Alba – is now one of the largest aluminum smelters in the world, producing over 1.56 million metric tons today. As a MENA industry leader, Alba has shifted its corporate agenda to focus on environmental, social and governance (ESG) transformation, in line with the global movement toward a sustainable future.
Alba is leading the regional sustainability drive by focusing on diversification, a vision that goes back to its beginnings in the 1960s as the GCC’s first primary smelter. Now, led by CEO Ali Al-Baqali, it is working to make an impact beyond its contribution to economic growth, with a strong social and educational role. Al-Baqali stresses that education is key to the company’s strategy, describing Alba as a place where people can start their careers and grow, much like a college.
In addition to fostering talent growth, Alba actively sponsors sports activities for youth, embodying a holistic approach to developing the next generation. Al-Baqali emphasizes the company’s substantial investments in environmental initiatives, allocating over $600 million to enhance Alba’s environmental footprint. Notably, Alba has transformed its surroundings, creating a lake, cultivating green spaces with diverse flora, and championing wildlife habitats.
On the economic front, Al-Baqali identifies Line 6 as a transformative driver for organic growth, boosting Alba’s output by 54% and paving the way for downstream sector expansion. Reflecting on 2021, Al-Baqali describes it as a unique year marked by safety, profitability, and increased output. As 2022 concludes, Al-Baqali envisions a future of sustained success and positive change, driven by Alba’s ambitious ESG goals and economic growth objectives.
