Synthetic waterproofing company Zylog GreenShield is expanding its operations in Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region, aiming to capitalise on a surge in major infrastructure and gigaprojects across the region.

The company, a division of India-based polymer manufacturer Zylog, is targeting growth in advanced synthetic membrane solutions for major developments across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), according to Mohamed Cherif, General Manager for the GCC region.

“The GCC construction sector is entering a new phase, with larger, more complex and increasingly performance-driven projects,” Cherif says.

This transformation is driving demand for specialised materials and waterproofing systems capable of performing under extreme temperatures and demanding project and sub-surface conditions.

“As membrane technologies and system configurations continue to evolve, selecting the right technology and complete system for each application is becoming increasingly important to ensure long-term durability and reliable performance,” he emphasises.

Building on more than four decades of Zylog’s experience in polymer-based technologies and engineered solutions, Zylog GreenShield has developed a broad portfolio of synthetic waterproofing systems for different construction environments and performance requirements.

“Our focus is on supporting the region’s evolving requirements through high-performance solutions, technical expertise and strong long-term partnerships,” Cherif remarks.

Zylog GreenShield’s synthetic waterproofing solutions include:

• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) pre-applied and post-applied systems for foundations, basements, retaining walls and below-grade structures;
• FPO (Flexible Polyolefin) membranes tailored for demanding underground and infrastructure applications, including tunnels and cut-and-cover structures;
• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing systems for mechanically fastened, fully adhered, ballasted, green roof and refurbishment applications;
• TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) systems for expansion joints and critical detailing applications; and
• EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) membranes for tunnels, landscaping, water features and water-containment applications.

“This breadth allows us to approach waterproofing as an integrated engineering solution rather than simply an individual membrane product,” Cherif points out.

Performance for demanding regional conditions

Construction in Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC presents significant environmental and project-specific challenges. High temperatures, intense solar exposure and demanding construction conditions require waterproofing systems capable of maintaining their performance over the long term.

“Our product development, therefore, places strong emphasis on durability, dimensional stability, installation reliability and long-term performance,” Cherif states. “Sustainability is equally important as developers, consultants and contractors increasingly consider lifecycle performance. Durable waterproofing systems can extend the service life of structures and reduce future repair and replacement requirements, while solutions such as reflective and green roofing systems can contribute to more efficient and sustainable buildings.”

Growth strategy

Zylog GreenShield says it has seen strong momentum for its business across the GCC, reinforcing its confidence in the long-term potential of the synthetic waterproofing market.

Saudi Arabia’s growing construction market – spanning infrastructure, commercial, residential and industrial developments – is driving demand for advanced waterproofing solutions. While price remains an important consideration, the market is increasingly focused on technical performance, compliance, system reliability and long-term value.

“Proper system selection and installation are becoming increasingly important to achieving durable and reliable waterproofing performance,” Cherif observes.

The company is taking a number of initiatives to strengthen its presence in the region, with partnerships remaining central to Zylog GreenShield’s GCC growth strategy.

“We work closely with established regional partners and industry specialists, supporting them through product development, technical documentation, testing and market-specific solutions,” Cherif comments. “This collaborative approach has enabled our technologies to address a widening range of waterproofing requirements across the region, while helping our partners strengthen their relationships with consultants, contractors and other project stakeholders.”

“Our objective, however, is not simply volume growth. We aim to develop sustainable, long-term partnerships supported by reliable products, technical expertise and responsive service,” he adds.

The company is also participating in Big 5 Construct Saudi, being held from August 30 to September 2 in Riyadh, where it will showcase its synthetic waterproofing portfolio.

“Our participation at Big 5 Construct Saudi provides an important opportunity to engage directly with the people shaping the Kingdom’s construction industry. We will showcase our synthetic waterproofing portfolio through real construction applications, demonstrating how different membrane technologies address requirements from foundations and underground structures to podiums, landscaping and roofing.

“The exhibition also provides an excellent platform to strengthen existing partnerships, establish new connections and better understand the evolving requirements of consultants, contractors and developers in Saudi Arabia,” he states.

Looking ahead

According to Cherif, future growth in the region will be driven not only by the scale of construction activity, but also by increasingly demanding specifications and a growing focus on lifecycle performance. This will create opportunities for companies that can combine advanced technologies, consistent quality, strong technical capabilities and a deep understanding of regional requirements.

To capitalise on this, Zylog GreenShield is focusing on expanding its regional presence, continuing to develop its product and system portfolio, and delivering high-level technical support through strong industry partnerships.

“Our priorities are clear: strengthen our regional presence, deepen our relationships with partners, continue developing our product and system portfolio, and provide the technical support required by an increasingly sophisticated construction industry,” Cherif concludes.