Nickel Price : Market trends in UAE

Nickel isn’t just another metal—it plays a big role in the industries that power the UAE’s economy. From construction and oil to electric vehicles and electronics, nickel is in high demand. And like any globally traded metal, its price can go up or down depending on many factors.

So, what’s the current situation with cost of nickel in the UAE? How much does it cost? And where exactly is it being used in local industries?

Let’s break it all down.

Nickel Price per Kg in the UAE – April 2025

Right now, the new or refined nickel rate in the UAE is hovering between AED 23,700 to AED 24,500 per metric ton. This is based on international prices (mainly set on the London Metal Exchange) and local import costs.

The UAE doesn’t produce this white silvery element locally, so prices here depend a lot on global supply chains, shipping, and currency strength. Since the dirham is pegged to the US dollar, any rise in global nickel prices hits the UAE market directly.

What’s Driving the Nickel price in the UAE?

Here are some of the key factors pushing price of nickel up (or keeping them high) in the UAE:

1. Boom in Electric Vehicles

It is a major ingredient in EV batteries. As the UAE government pushes green transport and more electric cars arrive on roads in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, the demand for battery-grade metal nickel is rising.

2. Global Supply Issues

Most of the world’s this silvery like metal element comes from countries like Indonesia, Russia, and the Philippines. When there are export bans, sanctions, or production issues in those places, the nickel price up everywhere—including here.

3. Construction Projects

UAE’s construction industry is always busy. From skyscrapers to shopping malls, stainless steel (which needs Ni alloy) is used everywhere. The more steel being used, the more this white metal silver like is needed—pushing up the demand.

4. Stainless Steel Demand

Even outside of construction, industries like food processing, chemical manufacturing, and interior design rely on stainless steel. Since nickels adding corrosion resistance and shine to steel, it remains essential.

Common usage

It used everywhere—you just don’t see it. But here’s how different industries across the UAE are using it every day:

● Stainless Steel Industry

A big chunk of the silver like metal coming into the UAE goes straight into stainless steel. This steel is used for:

  • Kitchenware and sinks
  • Pipes and tanks
  • Railings, lifts, and building facades
  • Hospital and medical equipment

Companies supplying Dubai’s mega malls, hospitals, and hotels rely heavily on stainless steel that alloy of nickel.

● Electric Vehicle (EV) Sector

Nickel is crucial for lithium-ion batteries, which are used in:

  • Electric cars like Tesla, Nissan Leaf, and BYD
  • E-scooters and delivery bikes
  • Power banks and solar battery storage units

With the UAE moving toward sustainable transport, EV-related demand for nickel is rising fast.

● Aerospace and Aviation

Nickel-based alloys can withstand extreme heat and are used in:

  • Jet engines
  • Turbine blades
  • Heat-resistant parts of planes

Aircraft used by Emirates, Etihad, and Dubai Aerospace Enterprise all have components made using this white metal.

● Oil & Gas Equipment

The oil industry relies on nickel because it helps steel resist corrosion from chemicals and seawater. You’ll find nickel in:

  • Drilling tools
  • Offshore platforms
  • Refinery components
  • Chemical storage tanks

This is especially important in Abu Dhabi, where ADNOC operates some of the region’s largest oil fields.

● Electronics and Mobile Devices

Nickel is also used in the electronics industry, including:

  • Mobile phones
  • Laptop batteries
  • Connectors and charging ports
  • Power tools

Retailers, service centers, and tech warehouses across the UAE rely on a steady supply of nickel-based components.

Nickel Price Outlook for the Rest of 2025

Most experts believe nickel prices could climb further by the end of the year, possibly reaching AED 25,000 to AED 27,000 per metric ton. Why? Because the EV market is growing, and supply from top exporters might remain tight due to environmental regulations or export limits.

So, if you’re in the business of importing, using, or nickel trading —or products made from it—now’s a good time to watch the market closely.

Final Thoughts

This metal is much more than just a shiny metal—it’s a building block of the UAE’s industrial, energy, and transport systems. Whether you’re importing it, using it in manufacturing, or just following metal prices for investment, understanding how and where nickel is used can help you make smarter decisions.