The office will house engineers, chemists and sales professionals with diverse expertise in silicon-based technology, according to the company.

“The Middle East is growing rapidly and quickly diversifying its business footprint,“ said Stephanie Burns, Dow Corning’s CEO. “We recognize the region's growing impact on the global economy and are now better-positioned to share the benefits of Dow Corning’s silicon-based materials and technology to help the region continue to grow and compete in the global economy over the long-term.“

The company has been active in the region for many years. Its silicone construction materials are being used in the construction of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Dubai in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“With the special challenges of high temperatures, sand and wind, there will be no end of uses for the incredible silicon atom in this area. The potential is yet to be realized,“ said Jean-Paul Mollie, Dow Corning’s president, Middle East, South Asia and Africa.

Dow Corning is seeking collaboration opportunities in the region with academic, government and other research organizations that are focused on innovating products and process to make them more efficient and environmentally sustainable.