The Middle East and Africa (MEA) excavator market is on course to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 6.9% during the period 2022-27, according to analysis from Actual Market Research. This trajectory is certainly impressive, especially when one considers the level of popularity these ever-dependable crawlers already enjoy across the region. JungHwa Kim, Branch Head of HDIME (HD Hyundai Infracore Middle East), says, “We have seen an increase of around 10% in 2023, compared to 2022, making an unforgettable year for my colleagues and me. The launch of DEVELON’s new DX-7M range of tracked excavators has contributed to this performance. This line-up comprises 19 models, ranging from 2t to 53t. They are designed for a wide variety of markets, including rental, construction, recycling, waste processing, utilities, mining, and quarrying. From the smallest model in the range – the DX27Z-7M mini-excavator – to the largest – the DX530LC(A)-7M units – our DX-7M models all offer significantly improved performance compared to their predecessors. This is due to the many enhancements we have made, such as the inclusion of more powerful engines and new, higher-flow hydraulic systems.”
Kim agrees that Saudi Arabia and the UAE stand out as frontrunners in the race and these 2 countries have shown the most significant growth. “Current crawler excavator demand is very high because of projects in Saudi Arabia, with the most popular models being the new DX225LCA-7M 22t unit and the DX530LC-7M 50t machine,” he says. “Due to their productivity and durability, DEVELON machines are particularly suitable for the Middle East market. “The completely redesigned cabs on the DX-7M excavators provide maximum comfort and total control of all aspects of the equipment,” Kim continues. “Several ventilation and air-conditioning options are offered to meet any additional needs, and enhanced safety is also ensured by the seat-belt warning alarm and Around View Monitor (AVM) system, the latter having been designed to prevent accidents caused by blind spots. “Demand may well drop again in Saudi Arabia once the current megaprojects finish, but it remains very high at present,” he adds.
DEVELON, whose tracked excavators are currently working across a variety of KSA projects, including NEOM, also have numerous sought-after machines in this segment. “Compared to tracked excavators, demand for wheeled machines, which are usually used in urban areas or on confined job sites, is not so big,” Kim says. “Large-scale civil engineering works are driving the majority of orders for DEVELON’s crawler units. “Our most popular models are the new DX225LCA-7M and DX530LC-7M,” he adds. “Like all DEVELON DX-7M excavators, both offer unbeatable performance on every job site, improved fuel efficiency and customer-oriented convenience.” So, what can tracked excavator manufacturers expect from the Middle East in 2024? “Market demand is likely to be slightly lower in 2024 because most customers have already made their machine purchases,” Kim notes. “Smaller projects will be released, but we are not anticipating new megaprojects next year.”
