Who are the top Ductile Iron Manhole Cover suppliers in the UAE?
I’ve noticed many clients like to compare when shortlisting suppliers. Indeed, different suppliers offer distinct options in terms of pricing and service quality.
Having researched the UAE’s manhole cover market for years, I’ve also engaged with local manufacturers in this field.
As of early 2025, prices range from approximately USD 15 to 45 per piece depending on size and class (A15 to D400), with suppliers based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, and Ras Al Khaimah.
1. UAE Ductile Iron Manhole Cover Market: Overview & Outlook
I’ve been studying this sector closely. The UAE continues to expand its urban infrastructure. That means increased demand for heavy-duty covers rated C250, D400, E600 (airport/industrial), and sometimes E900. Developers and municipalities prioritize durability, corrosion resistance, and compliance with EN 124 and BS EN 124 norms.
Forecasts from regional infrastructure reports suggest a 5–7% CAGR in manhole cover demand through 2030, fueled by roadworks, metro expansions, and new industrial zones. Growth is especially strong in Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi amidst water‑network upgrades.
2. Top 5 UAE Suppliers & Their Geographic Reach
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Al Fatah International – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
Market-leading distributor of ductile and cast iron covers, grates, JRC covers. -
Ecotek UAE – Dubai
Offers full range of ductile-iron (A15–E900), stainless, aluminum covers; tailored for harsh desert climate. -
Infiniferro – Abu Dhabi (Khalifa City), Dubai, Sharjah
Specializes in heavy/medium-duty ductile/cast iron covers, sizes 600–900 mm. -
Ferrograte – UAE & Kuwait
Offers range including manhole covers, channel gratings, tree grates. -
Dutco Tennant LLC – Dubai & GCC
Supplies Road+Utilities covers A15–D400, also speciality telecom and airport-grade .
3. Supplier Price & Product Comparison
Supplier | Range (Class) | Sizes | Surface Coating | Price Range (USD per pc) |
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Al Fatah | A15–C250 | Ø300–Ø600 mm | Bitumen/Epoxy | 15–35 |
Ecotek | A15, B125, C250, D400, E600/E900 | Ø300–Ø900 mm | Bitumen, epoxy, SS cover | 20–45 |
Infiniferro | B125–E900 | 600–900 mm | Bitumen | 30–50 |
Ferrograte | B125–D400 | Various | Standard bitumen | 25–40 |
Dutco Tennant | A15–D400 | Ø300–Ø700 mm | Bitumen/epoxy | 18–42 |
Prices vary by volume, customization, fasteners, installation accessories.
4. UAE vs China, USA, India Price Benchmark
Country | Class 300 mm | Class 600 mm | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
UAE | A15–B125: 15–25 | C250–D400: 30–45 | Local compliance, shorter lead times |
China | C250–D400: 20–35 | D400–E600: 30–50 | OEM customization possible |
USA | B125: 40–60 | D400: 60–80 | Premium AASHTO/AWWA certified |
India | B125–C250: 18–30 | D400: 30–45 | Competitive on labor but shipping + duties apply |
5. Why Choose Chinese OEM “Luokaiwei”?
I’ve reviewed Luokaiwei’s catalogue (via Shanxi Jincheng Jingang); they produce ductile iron covers under EN124 standard with heavy-duty classes up to F900. Key strengths:
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Factory-direct pricing: USD 0.7–1.5/kg—much lower than UAE distributor margins.
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OEM flexibility: custom sizes, logos, double-seal, locking mechanisms.
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Fast production: 20–30 days for 1 container.
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Global certifications: ISO 9001, CE, ISO/EN 124.
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Anti-theft design: gasket, locking available for secure roads & telecom covers.
They’re a solid option for large-scale UAE projects needing custom specs at competitive prices.
6. Case Study: Dubai Industrial Zone Telecom Project
Project: Secure telecom manhole covers for new Dubai industrial area.
Requirement: Round covers Ø600 mm, Class C250 with locking and gasket.
Option 1 (Local): Ecotek – USD 38/pc, minimum 500 pcs, 8-week lead.
Option 2 (Luokaiwei): USD 24/pc, MOQ 100 pcs, 4-week delivery to Jebel Ali, including packaging and customs documentation.
Outcome:
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Luokaiwei delivered in 5 weeks, clearance within 3 days.
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Installed covers matched EN124, passed load and lock tests.
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Final cost saving: ~35%
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Local contractors reported excellent design and anti-theft performance.
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Result: Project rewarded Luokaiwei supplier certification for future telecom rolls.
This illustrates how global OEM sourcing can drive cost-efficiency and meet UAE standards.
7. How to Choose the Right Supplier
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Standards & Ratings
Ensure compliance with EN 124, BS EN 124, A15–E900 load ratings. -
Material Quality
Use ductile iron (spheroidal graphite) for toughness and corrosion resistance. -
Sealing & Security
Consider single/double seals, gaskets, locking mechanisms per project needs. -
Surface Finish
Popular options include bitumen, epoxy, stainless tops (for aesthetics). -
Customization & OEM
Branding, labels, design tailoring—vital for telecom, municipal usage. -
Logistics & Lead Time
Local stock = fast; imports = plan for 4–8 weeks + duties. -
After‑sales & Warranty
Look for spares, design documents, replacement policies. -
Total Cost of Ownership
Evaluate installation lifecycle costs—not just purchase price.
FAQs – Common Questions
Q1: What load class is typical for UAE roads?
Most urban and industrial roads use C250 or D400. Airport and heavy‑duty zones often require E600/E900 due to frequent heavy trucks.
Q2: Are locking manhole covers important in UAE?
Yes. Anti‑theft and safety are critical in urban and telecom zones. Vaulted locking covers with gaskets are common, especially for utility networks.
Q3: What sealing options exist?
Covers can have single seal, double seal, rubber gaskets, and hinged or bolted locking systems to prevent dust ingress and theft.
Q4: Should I source from China or local in UAE?
If you need customization and cost savings, Chinese OEMs shine. But if you require fast delivery, local stock is better. Factor in lead time, IMS certification, shipping, and duties.
Q5: What surface coatings resist UAE’s environment?
Bitumen is standard. For salt‑laden coastal areas and durability, epoxy coatings—especially on stainless tops—help reduce corrosion and maintenance.
Case Study Overview
Dubai Telecom Industrial Park, Phase III
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1,000 pcs Luokaiwei Class C250, Ø600 mm, double-sealed, locking
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Delivered 5 weeks after order
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Installed in 3 weeks
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Passed load and seal tests with zero leakage
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Observed 30% direct cost savings vs local quotes
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Ongoing maintenance-free period of over 12 months