The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) marked another successful participation at the 21st edition of the Dubai Woodshow, reaffirming the region’s growing appetite for sustainable, high-quality U.S. hardwoods.

Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 14 to 16, the show gathered exhibitors and industry leaders from over 50 countries. This year, AHEC’s 162-square-meter American Hardwood Pavilion hosted thirteen U.S. hardwood exporters in collaboration with the Hardwood States Export Group, creating a dynamic platform for regional business engagement and product showcase.

During the show, AHEC presented the latest trade data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), revealing continued momentum in U.S. hardwood exports. In 2024, U.S. hardwood lumber shipments to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) rose by 8%, reaching USD 73.1 million, while veneer exports totaled USD 23.9 million.

The United Arab Emirates stood out as a key growth market, with hardwood lumber exports soaring 48% in value to USD 18.8 million and increasing 49% in volume to 22,320 cubic meters. With the UAE’s booming construction sector expected to drive sustained demand, 2025 is poised for further expansion.

“AHEC has proudly supported the Dubai Woodshow since its inception,” said Roderick Wiles, AHEC Regional Director. “For our members, this event is more than a trade fair—it’s a vital gateway to connect with the MENA market, strengthen partnerships, and explore new opportunities.”

Other regional markets including Pakistan, Morocco, Lebanon, and Algeria also saw positive growth in 2024. While Turkey and Egypt experienced modest declines due to economic headwinds, demand across the broader region remains resilient and promising.

Participating U.S. hardwood companies at the pavilion included Baillie Lumber, BOSS Lumber, Frank Miller Lumber, Hartzell Hardwoods, Hermitage Hardwood Lumber Sales, MacDonald & Owen, Midwest Hardwood Company, Missouri Walnut, Moehring Group-Atlantic Veneer, Nina Company, Patrick Lumber Company, Penn-Sylvan International, and Wheeland Lumber.

Beyond the trade floor, AHEC enriched the Dubai Woodshow experience through two significant side events:

• Timber Talks with Neil Summers, hosted by The Makers Society on April 19, offered deep insights into American hardwoods’ properties, uses, and sustainable sourcing. The event featured a Q&A session, demonstrations, and access to professional woodworking facilities—underscoring the educational mission behind AHEC’s outreach.
• Branching Out or Sticking to Steel? The Timber Dilemma, held on April 17, explored critical questions around material choice in architecture and design. The session brought together industry voices to examine the benefits and barriers of timber as a structural alternative in a region traditionally dominated by steel and concrete.

As sustainability, design innovation, and material responsibility take center stage, AHEC’s presence at the Dubai Woodshow reinforced the message that American hardwoods are not just beautiful—but smart, sustainable, and built for tomorrow materials for the MENA region and beyond.