USGBoral Middle East, a leading manufacturer of interior finishing products, said it has begun production of metal ceiling panels at its factory in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

The move marks a major expansion of the company’s product portfolio, which comprises plasterboard, ceiling lining systems and accessories, reported Saudi Gazette, citing a senior company official.

USGBoral is showcasing its wide range of products including the aluminum alloy and steel ceiling systems at The Big 5 construction expo in Dubai, UAE.

Fares Saghbini, the managing director of USG Boral ME, said: "The annual growth in demand for interior finishing products in the GCC is 25.6 per cent with a value of $8.87 billion from the projects likely to be completed over 2016."

"Currently, there are more than 10,000 projects under construction or in the planning stage in the GCC, while the estimated value of construction projects that will be completed in the next decade is $1.4 trillion. Therefore, this expansion is a much-needed step to meet those increasing demands," stated Saghbini.

“Our new high-quality and cost-efficient aluminum alloy and steel ceiling systems, are targeted at commercial and institutional interiors, residential excluded, enhancing the aesthetic and functional value of these interiors since they provide virtually unlimited design possibilities for applications ranging from banks to corporate offices, shopping malls, and as well as airports,” he noted.

"What differentiates us is that the whole production of the metal ceiling system, from tile to suspension system is done in-house; giving premium finishing, high quality and a wide variety of choices. Moreover, our products range varies from standard suspended ceiling systems to specialties and custom-made to meet the various requirements of architect’s specifications," he added.

It is estimated that spending on interior finishing items will grow by 13.7 per cent by next year.