LabSpace, a specialist in turnkey laboratory infrastructure under Centena Group, has reported a 30% year-on-year revenue increase, driven by growing demand across the UAE’s education and industrial sectors.
The company is also preparing to expand its footprint into Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where similar trends are accelerating.
Education sector drives growth
The sharp rise in revenue aligns with the region’s expanding education sector. A recent industry report estimates that student numbers across the GCC will increase by 1.1 million to reach 14.2 million by 2027. In Dubai alone, student enrolment rose by 20% during the 2024–2025 academic year, with higher education numbers expected to more than double by 2040.
This surge has created a pressing need for advanced laboratory infrastructure to support science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education.
Customised lab solutions
In response, LabSpace has introduced new lab solutions designed to improve safety, efficiency, and adaptability. These include modular storage systems, flexible benches, and enhanced weight-bearing capabilities, aimed at meeting the specific needs of educational, industrial, and research sectors.
Nilesh Korgaonkar, CEO of LabSpace, said: “This year, we experienced the highest demand from the educational sector, especially due to the surge in the number of schools and universities in the country. In addition, we are witnessing a growing demand for industrial laboratories as the UAE and GCC intensify its focus on manufacturing and R&D projects.”
He added: “Our solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of each sector, whether it is an educational institution, an industrial workspace or a commercial research facility. With a strong emphasis on engineering excellence and innovative designs, we support various industries with end-to-end lab setup, from consultation to installation.”
Projects across the UAE
LabSpace has delivered over 150 laboratory projects and installed more than 2,500 workstations across the UAE, including for major clients such as DEWA, DP World, and GEMS Education.
The company is currently working on a major educational project for Victoria International School of Sharjah, covering campuses in Maleha, Khorfakkan, and Kalba. Facilities include science, design technology, STEAM, food technology, and multimedia labs. The Maleha and Khorfakkan campuses have been completed, while work is ongoing for the Kalba campus.
Korgaonkar noted that LabSpace’s UAE-based manufacturing facility now allows the team to deliver over 100 labs annually, ensuring high-quality standards and timely project delivery.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
