Middle East & Africa Cement Paint Market Outlook, 2030

The cement paint market in the Middle East and Africa has evolved as a critical solution for protecting structures against extreme climatic conditions, where intense heat, sandstorms, and high humidity demand coatings that offer long-term durability. As urban expansion and infrastructure development continue across the region, cement paint has become an essential material for safeguarding concrete and masonry surfaces from weather-related deterioration. This type of paint is widely required due to its ability to resist moisture penetration, thermal fluctuations, and surface cracks, making it ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Unlike conventional decorative paints, cement paint chemically bonds with porous surfaces, forming a hard, breathable layer that prevents peeling and enhances longevity. Its unique formulation consists of high-quality cement, fine aggregates, alkali-resistant pigments, waterproofing compounds, and anti-fungal agents, ensuring superior adhesion and resistance to extreme temperatures. The history of cement paint in this region dates back several decades when the need for cost-effective, protective coatings emerged in arid and humid climates. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and South Africa began adopting cement paint in large-scale construction projects as early as the mid-20th century to extend the lifespan of exterior walls exposed to harsh weather. Over time, innovations in polymer-modified cement paints introduced improved flexibility, crack resistance, and enhanced color retention, making it a preferred choice for both urban and rural construction. The market in the Middle East and Africa has also embraced advancements in eco-friendly formulations, incorporating low-VOC (volatile organic compound) binders and reflective pigments that improve energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption in buildings. Additionally, advancements in waterproofing technologies have enabled cement paints to offer superior protection against heavy rains and saline conditions, particularly in coastal areas.

According to the research report ""Middle East and Africa Cement Paint Market Outlook, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Middle East and Africa Cement Paint market is anticipated to grow at more than 7.17% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The market growth is propelled by rapid urbanization, increasing investments in infrastructure projects, and the demand for heat-resistant coatings in extreme climatic conditions. Recent industry advancements include the development of cement paints with enhanced solar reflectivity, designed to minimize heat absorption and improve energy efficiency in buildings. Customers in this region appreciate cement paints for their superior durability, resistance to sandstorms, and ability to protect concrete surfaces from alkali and salt damage, which is crucial in coastal and desert environments. Stringent environmental regulations, such as the UAE's Green Building Regulations and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 sustainability framework, are pushing manufacturers to innovate with low-VOC and eco-friendly cement paints. The supply chain varies across the region, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia having strong local production facilities, while countries in sub-Saharan Africa often rely on imports due to limited manufacturing infrastructure. The major technologies used in cement paints for this region include elastomeric coatings for crack bridging, waterproofing additives for moisture-prone areas, and titanium dioxide-based formulations for superior whiteness and reflectivity. Self-cleaning nanotechnology-enabled cement paints are emerging as a key trend, offering anti-fungal and dust-resistant properties, particularly beneficial in arid and high-pollution zones. The rising adoption of bio-based binders and recycled raw materials aligns with the region’s growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices. Additionally, the integration of smart coatings with thermochromic pigments, which help regulate indoor temperatures by changing color based on external heat, is gaining traction. The expansion of e-commerce and digital platforms for construction materials is improving accessibility to advanced cement paint solutions, allowing architects and builders to explore customizable options for residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

Market Drivers

• Mega Infrastructure Projects in the GCC: The Middle East is experiencing a construction boom, with large-scale infrastructure projects such as Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, Qatar’s Lusail City, and the UAE’s Expo 2020 legacy developments. These ambitious projects require durable exterior coatings, including cement paints, which offer cost-effective protection against harsh environmental conditions. Governments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region are heavily investing in smart cities, tourism hubs, and industrial zones, all of which contribute to increased demand for high-performance cement-based paints.
• Growing Demand for Heat-Reflective Paints: With scorching temperatures in regions like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and parts of Africa, energy-efficient building materials are gaining traction. Cement paints with heat-reflective and thermal insulation properties help reduce indoor temperatures and lower cooling costs. Countries such as South Africa, where summer temperatures can soar, are also witnessing increased adoption of reflective coatings in residential and commercial buildings. Innovations in solar-reflective cement paints, which minimize heat absorption, are driving market growth.

Market Challenges

• Extreme Climatic Conditions Reducing Paint Longevity: The Middle East’s intense heat, combined with frequent sandstorms, causes exterior coatings to deteriorate quickly. Cement paints, while durable, face challenges such as cracking, fading, and erosion due to prolonged sun exposure and abrasive dust particles. Similarly, parts of Africa experience heavy rainfall and humidity, leading to issues like peeling and mold growth. These climatic conditions require manufacturers to develop advanced formulations that offer UV resistance and enhanced durability.
• Low Penetration of Premium Cement Paints: In many African countries, cost-sensitive consumers prefer traditional whitewash or low-cost local alternatives over high-quality cement paints. Limited awareness about the long-term benefits of durable and weather-resistant coatings also affects market penetration. The affordability factor remains a significant barrier, with many households and builders prioritizing immediate cost savings over performance. This challenge is particularly evident in rural and economically weaker regions where infrastructure development is slow.

Market Trends

• Adoption of Anti-Dust and Anti-Fungal Paints: Given the prevalence of sandstorms in the Middle East and humid conditions in parts of Africa, there is a growing demand for specialized coatings that resist dust accumulation and fungal growth. Cement paints with anti-static properties prevent fine dust from sticking to surfaces, reducing maintenance costs for buildings in desert environments like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. In contrast, coastal and tropical regions of Africa, such as Nigeria and Kenya, are seeing increased use of anti-fungal cement paints to combat moisture-related issues like mold and algae formation.
• Government Regulations Promoting Energy-Efficient Buildings: Several Middle Eastern and African governments are enforcing sustainability policies that encourage the use of energy-efficient building materials. The UAE’s Estidama green building regulations and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative emphasize environmentally friendly construction practices, leading to the adoption of cement paints with insulating properties. Similarly, African countries, particularly South Africa, are promoting energy-saving coatings as part of their climate resilience strategies. As a result, manufacturers are introducing cement-based paints that enhance thermal efficiency, contributing to reduced energy consumption in commercial and residential spaces.

Acrylic-based cement paints dominate because they offer superior adhesion, durability, and resistance to extreme climate conditions.

In the Middle East and Africa, where temperatures fluctuate between scorching heat and occasional heavy rains, acrylic technology in cement paint has become the industry standard. Unlike traditional paints, acrylic formulations create a flexible yet tough film on concrete surfaces, reducing cracks caused by expansion and contraction. This characteristic makes them ideal for both residential and commercial structures, particularly in regions with high UV exposure. Acrylic cement paints also offer better water resistance, an essential property in coastal areas and places with unpredictable rainfall. Additionally, these paints dry faster, making them more efficient for large-scale applications where quick turnaround times are necessary. The ease of application further drives their adoption, allowing both professional painters and DIY users to achieve a smooth and long-lasting finish with minimal effort. Many manufacturers in the region also favor acrylic-based formulations because they support tinting with a wide range of colors, enabling vibrant exterior and interior designs. With growing urbanization and infrastructure projects, the demand for durable and aesthetic cement paint has increased significantly. Furthermore, acrylic paints have low maintenance costs, making them more economical in the long run, as they require fewer repaints compared to oil-based or traditional cement paints. As Middle Eastern cities like Dubai and Riyadh expand with modern construction, and African urban centers such as Lagos and Nairobi invest in large-scale housing projects, the reliance on advanced paint technology continues to rise.

The exterior segment grows rapidly because cement paints need to withstand harsh weather, dust, and high UV radiation.

The demand for exterior cement paint in the Middle East and Africa has surged due to the region’s intense sun exposure, heavy winds, and occasional sandstorms, which accelerate surface degradation. In arid and semi-arid climates, such as those in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and North Africa, buildings face extreme temperatures that cause thermal expansion and contraction, leading to cracks and fading paint. Cement-based exterior paints offer a protective shield against these harsh conditions by forming a strong bond with concrete surfaces. They resist peeling, chipping, and fading, which is essential in urban developments and residential neighborhoods where maintaining aesthetic appeal is crucial. Additionally, in coastal regions like Egypt and South Africa, the salty air can accelerate corrosion on exposed concrete and masonry surfaces, making protective coatings a necessity. The growth in the real estate sector, driven by population growth and urbanization, has further fueled the need for durable exterior coatings. Governments are also investing heavily in infrastructure, from highways and bridges to public buildings and housing schemes, all of which require protective coatings that can endure long-term exposure to the elements. Unlike interior paints, which face minimal wear, exterior paints must combat direct UV rays, high humidity, and sand-laden winds. As sustainability becomes a greater concern, manufacturers are developing advanced formulations with anti-fungal, anti-algae, and heat-reflective properties to improve longevity. Homeowners and developers are also shifting towards premium exterior cement paints, as they reduce maintenance costs by extending repainting cycles.

Oil-based cement paints dominate because they provide superior moisture resistance, durability, and better adhesion on rough surfaces.

In the Middle East and Africa, where buildings must endure high temperatures, dust accumulation, and moisture variations, oil-based cement paints are widely used due to their robust protective properties. These paints penetrate deeply into porous surfaces, ensuring a firm grip that prevents peeling or chalking, even in extreme weather conditions. One of the biggest advantages of oil-based formulations is their excellent water resistance, making them a preferred choice for exterior walls, boundary walls, and industrial structures exposed to humidity and rainfall. In African countries with tropical climates, such as Nigeria and Ghana, the humidity can cause standard water-based paints to deteriorate quickly, whereas oil-based cement paints offer a longer lifespan. Additionally, these paints create a hard, non-porous surface that resists fungal growth, an essential feature in humid and coastal areas. Their durability makes them popular for commercial and public buildings that require extended maintenance cycles, reducing repainting costs over time. Another reason for their dominance is the ability to provide rich and uniform coverage on rough cement and concrete surfaces, common in both urban and rural housing across the region. While oil-based paints take longer to dry compared to acrylic alternatives, their tough finish and superior weather resistance make them a reliable option for long-term applications. Industrial and commercial projects also prefer oil-based cement paints because they can endure high foot traffic, pollution, and mechanical wear. Despite a growing shift toward water-based paints due to environmental concerns, oil-based variants continue to hold a strong market presence, particularly in applications requiring maximum durability and moisture resistance.

The commercial sector plays a crucial role because large-scale infrastructure and business developments require high-performance coatings.

The Middle East and Africa have seen a sharp rise in commercial construction, with massive investments in office complexes, shopping malls, hotels, and industrial zones. Governments across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are actively diversifying their economies by building modern business hubs, and cement paints play a vital role in these projects. Commercial structures require coatings that can withstand high foot traffic, frequent cleaning, and environmental exposure, making durable cement-based paints an essential choice. Shopping malls in the UAE, commercial complexes in Saudi Arabia, and business districts in South Africa all rely on high-quality cement paints for both aesthetic appeal and protection. Unlike residential buildings, commercial properties require paints that maintain a polished look while resisting dirt accumulation, impact damage, and weathering. Additionally, with many commercial buildings featuring exposed concrete designs, cement paints offer an ideal solution for preserving and enhancing their structural appearance. Industrial zones and logistics hubs also contribute to market growth, as they require robust cement coatings for warehouses, storage facilities, and transportation hubs. The rise of tourism in destinations like Dubai, Marrakech, and Cape Town has further driven demand for premium cement paint solutions in hospitality and retail spaces.

South Africa dominates due to its strong construction industry, diverse climate, and high demand for durable coatings.

South Africa stands out as the leading market for cement paint in the Middle East and Africa because of its well-developed infrastructure and expanding urbanization. The country experiences a wide range of climatic conditions, from humid coastal regions in Durban to dry, high-altitude areas like Johannesburg, which creates a strong need for specialized cement coatings that can withstand different environmental challenges. The construction industry in South Africa is consistently growing, with new housing developments, commercial spaces, and large-scale infrastructure projects boosting demand for cement paints. Unlike many other African nations, South Africa has an established real estate sector with significant investment in residential and commercial buildings, both of which require high-quality coatings for long-term durability. Additionally, the country has a strong DIY culture, with homeowners frequently using cement paints for maintenance and aesthetic upgrades, further driving sales. The government also invests in public sector projects, including schools, hospitals, and transportation hubs, which require weather-resistant coatings for concrete surfaces. South Africa's position as a regional manufacturing hub allows local producers to develop and supply cement paints tailored to the market’s needs, ensuring competitive pricing and widespread availability. With rising urban expansion in cities like Cape Town and Pretoria, and ongoing investments in industrial and commercial infrastructure, the demand for cement-based paints continues to grow.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Cement Paint Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Technology
• Acrylic
• Water Proof
• Synthetic
• Others

By Application
• Interior
• Exterior

By Type
• Oil-based
• Dry

By End User
• Residential
• Commercial
• Industrial

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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