May 03, 2026
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the market for electric heating devices and underfloor heating in the GCC will reach 4.2 million units and 136 million dollars by 2035

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The market for electric heating devices and underfloor heating in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is experiencing interesting developments. With projections indicating growth to 4.2 million units sold and a value reaching 136 million dollars by 2035, this sector is drawing increasing interest, particularly due to the heightened emphasis on energy efficiency and home comfort. This dynamic reflects changes in energy consumption habits related to electric heating in the GCC. The development of this market also reveals trends specific to this geographical area, facing climate challenges while seeking to diversify its energy sources.

The GCC market for electric heating devices and underfloor heating: key trends and developments

The electric heating device sector, particularly underfloor heating, is gradually establishing itself in GCC countries. This phenomenon occurs within a context where the demand for efficient electric heating solutions is growing, albeit at a moderate rate, with an average projected annual growth rate of about 1.9% in volume until 2035. Meanwhile, the overall market value is benefiting from an estimated 2.7% average annual growth, aligning with a marked interest in systems that are both comfortable and energy-efficient.

In 2024, despite a slight drop in consumption of -29.9% to 3.4 million units, the total volume of consumption remains robust over the past decade. The peak consumption observed in 2023, with 4.8 million units, reflects a gradual yet aggressive adoption of these technologies. Among the various GCC countries, Saudi Arabia stands out as the leading consumer, accounting for more than half of the sales and exhibiting an impressive +7% average annual growth over the period 2013-2024.

  • Major role of Saudi Arabia, consuming 56% of devices

  • The United Arab Emirates, with a moderate decline of -1.3% in consumption per year

  • Oman, with strong growth of +5.9% in annual consumption

These figures have a direct impact on the localization strategies of local suppliers and industrial importers. For industry professionals like Paul Leclerc, mastering this data is essential for anticipating customer needs regarding electric heating in this region.

Country

Consumption volume (units, 2024)

Average annual growth (2013-2024)

Market value (million USD, 2024)

Saudi Arabia

1.9M

+7.0%

57

United Arab Emirates

691K

-1.3%

21

Oman

485K

+5.9%

This market, experiencing ups and downs, particularly due to political and economic adjustments in the area, remains a prime target for manufacturers and installers looking to invest in electric heating and underfloor heating in the GCC. To delve deeper into this trend, additional resources are available through detailed studies on electric underfloor heating.

The various types of electric heating devices in the GCC: innovations and market preferences

Electric heating in the GCC region primarily includes traditional electric radiators, convectors, and especially underfloor heating systems. This last category is experiencing growing interest, particularly for its thermal comfort and energy efficiency, both of which are highly valued in the context of modern homes and air-conditioned commercial spaces.

Underfloor heating can be installed in either wet (with piping under the screed) or dry (heating cables or mats) versions. These solutions are generally integrated into new constructions or offered during energy renovations. In spaces where air conditioning is heavily used, underfloor heating provides precise and controlled thermal complement.

  • Electric radiant devices: simple and quick to install, suited for occasional heating needs.

  • Electric convectors: suitable for medium-sized rooms, with options for advanced programming.

  • Electric underfloor heating: perfect for diffuse warmth and optimal long-term comfort.

For example, in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, there is a preference for installing underfloor heating in villas and luxury hotels, while Saudi Arabia is more inclined towards purchasing convectors and electric radiators, due to climatic specifics and occasional needs.

In the industrial offer, the growth of this market is driven by constant innovations in materials and smart control systems. The integration of connected thermostats and energy-saving options is rapidly expanding. These technological trends allow for meeting the expectations of customers keen on managing their electricity consumption, a crucial topic in optimizing GCC domestic energy.

Type of device

Main use

Advantages

Technical challenges

Electric radiators

Occasional heating

Quick installation, low initial cost

Often high energy consumption

Electric convectors

Regular heating of rooms

Good thermal comfort, programmable

Need for regular maintenance

Underfloor heating

Global heating, superior comfort

Uniform heat distribution, invisibility

Installation cost and technical complexity

These choices illustrate the importance for experts like Paul Leclerc to offer solutions adapted to the constraints and expectations of end-users while complying with local standards found, in particular, on this page dedicated to electric heating regulations.

Forecasts and strategies for growth in the GCC electric heating market by 2035

Market forecasts for electric heating devices and underfloor heating in the GCC indicate a steady but measured progression. The total volume of sales is expected to reach 4.2 million units by 2035, illustrating stable demand despite fluctuations observed in the early part of the decade. The market value could grow at a faster pace, peaking at around 136 million dollars, reflecting the valuation of equipment, particularly due to a shift towards premium products.

This scenario relies heavily on several dynamics that will shape growth:

  • Modernization of residential and commercial infrastructure in the region

  • Growing adoption of underfloor heating technologies promoting comfort and energy savings

  • Government incentives and financial aid to promote sustainable solutions

  • Regulatory reforms aligned with greenhouse gas emission reduction targets

  • Increasing integration of connected systems to optimize energy consumption

The complexity of the market requires players to maintain constant vigilance regarding legislative and regulatory changes, fluctuations in electricity prices, and local preferences related to thermal comfort culture. Furthermore, some countries, notably Saudi Arabia, are adopting energy diversification strategies, stimulating demand for solutions such as electric heating powered by renewable sources.

Year

Projected volume (millions of units)

Projected value (millions of dollars)

Average annual growth rate (volume)

Average annual growth rate (value)

2024

3.4

102

2035 (forecast)

4.2

136

+1.9%

+2.7%

Staying informed about these developments is crucial for anyone involved in the electric heating market in the Gulf countries. To support this anticipation, several international reports can be consulted, notably those provided by The Insight Partners or Market Research Future.

Production, imports, and exports: trade flows of electric heating in the GCC

The local production of electric heating devices in the GCC is primarily concentrated in the United Arab Emirates and Oman, which together represent over 90% of regional manufacturing. In 2024, production is estimated at around 1.1 million units, following a peak in 2017. It is noteworthy that production experienced dynamic growth between 2013 and 2019, with sometimes spectacular increases in volume and value.

Imports complement this arrangement by supplying nearly 2.4 million additional units to the region. Saudi Arabia positions itself as the leading importer, accounting for 80% of the volumes, and shows a trend towards increasing its external purchases. In contrast, exports remain modest at approximately 0.1 million units, primarily destined for neighboring countries, highlighting a strong market orientation towards local consumption.

  • Electric radiators and convectors account for 99% of imports

  • Imports reached a peak in 2023 before a significant decline in 2024

  • The average import price of a device is approximately 21 dollars per unit

These flows demonstrate how much the region still relies on imported equipment, despite a rise in local manufacturing. Price fluctuations, notably the recent decrease in import costs, influence the competitiveness of regional innovations.

Type of flow

Volume (thousands of units, 2024)

Value (million USD, 2024)

Main share

Local production

1,100

47

United Arab Emirates, Oman

Imports

2,400

49

Saudi Arabia (80%)

Exports

103

3.6

United Arab Emirates (77%)

To optimize resource management and better coordinate supplies, it is essential for local players, including installers like Paul Leclerc, to stay attuned to import-export movements. Several quality resources can help deepen knowledge of this market, such as Global Insight Services.

Practical tips for mastering electric heating in the GCC: choosing, installing, and maintaining devices

The electric heating market in the GCC, while undergoing favorable changes, requires particular attention to technical choices and maintenance. Proper installation directly impacts energy performance and the lifespan of equipment. It is crucial to comply with normative recommendations and local safety regulations to ensure optimal and secure operation.

For example, compliance with specific installation standards for electric underfloor heating is a must, available in detail on Prime Coup de Pouce Chauffage. The choice of moisture-resistant materials suited to hot region floors is also essential to prevent any premature damage.

  • Opt for programmable thermostats to optimize energy consumption

  • Plan for regular checks, particularly before the cold seasons

  • Prefer the use of certified materials, ensuring robustness and durability

  • Consider appropriate electrical protection of the electrical panel to prevent risks (cf. heating panel protection)

  • Accurately estimate annual consumption to control the budget (see estimates on Prime Coup de Pouce Chauffage)

A common case involves the energy renovation of homes: replacing an outdated system with electric underfloor heating can enhance comfort while reducing energy bills due to better heat distribution. In this regard, knowing local and national financial assistance is very useful, especially for individuals looking to improve their installation.

Step

Objective

Advice

Device selection

Adaptation to needs and housing characteristics

Prioritize low-consumption systems with adjustable comfort

Installation

Regulatory compliance and safety

Comply with national standards, use certified materials

Maintenance

Sustainable performance and long-term savings

Plan for annual checks, verify the condition of electrical components

Experienced professionals such as those trained for a long time, with sharp technical expertise and attentive to customer needs, are best positioned to guarantee the quality of interventions. To inform you further about electric heating and its specificities in 2025, this comprehensive guide can be useful: Electric heating solutions 2025.