Power plant inspection and infrastructure discussions
Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE), inspected a power plant construction site and offered encouragement to local employees. Lee also met with executives from Samsung C&T and Samsung E&A to discuss cooperation on future infrastructure businesses, including AI data centers.
Samsung said on October 22 that Lee visited the Al Dhafra gas-fired power plant construction site in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on October 21, local time. Lee toured major construction facilities and checked the construction schedule and site safety management arrangements.
Lee then held a meeting with Samsung C&T and Samsung E&A executives to review changes in the Middle Eastern market and business strategies. Executives from the two companies discussed ways to identify new business opportunities linked to future industries beyond conventional power plants.
The Al Dhafra gas-fired power plant is a major power facility being built by a consortium of Samsung C&T and local construction company Trojan General Contracting. Designed to meet electricity demand arising from the UAE's industrial development, it is expected to supply power needed by advanced industries, including AI data centers.
Samsung plans to deepen its business cooperation with the UAE. Drawing on Samsung C&T's experience building the Barakah nuclear power plant and Samsung E&A's plant capabilities, it is pursuing expanded nuclear and combined-cycle power business, as well as participation in new businesses such as AI data centers and energy infrastructure.
Employee safety and support
After the site inspection, Lee had lunch with employees in the cafeteria and discussed local working conditions. Lee then held a meeting with employees from affiliated companies to hear about difficulties and suggestions arising from overseas assignments.
The site visit was arranged to support employees working in the Middle East amid instability caused by war and geopolitical conflict. Lee focused on checking the safety of site personnel continuing projects despite the effects of conflicts in neighboring countries.
Before the visit, on October 16, Lee sent gifts of encouragement to 730 employees from affiliated companies assigned to nine Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iran, and to their families in South Korea and overseas. Employees on assignment received local gift vouchers worth 3 million to 5 million won, while their families in South Korea received Onnuri gift certificates worth 2 million to 3 million won.
In a letter of thanks, Lee said, "I am deeply grateful for the responsibility and effort you demonstrate in your respective roles. The company always places your safety and health first."
Lee also maintained contact in March by sending gifts of encouragement to about 500 employees staying in three Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and to their families.
Original Korean article: Chosun Ilbo
English brief by Korea Wind Intelligence, koreawindintel.com
