When it comes to international trade and infrastructure development, consistency and commitment are everything. In August 2025, AlJabal Holding, a global leader in industrial and petrochemical exports, proudly announced its third shipment of Bitumen 80/100 to Ethiopia—comprising 24 containers of 20 ft each. This shipment not only reaffirms the company’s growing footprint in East Africa but also reflects its strategic focus on supplying high-quality construction materials to emerging markets.
With Ethiopia undergoing massive infrastructure expansion, reliable bitumen supply is crucial. Roads, highways, and public infrastructure are the backbone of economic growth, and bitumen is the binding element making it all possible. By choosing AlJabal Holding, Ethiopian developers and contractors are investing in a product known for its durability, consistency, and performance in diverse weather conditions.
This third shipment isn’t just another batch—it’s a milestone that marks the evolution of trade relationships between Ethiopia and suppliers in the Gulf region. It demonstrates how consistent performance, competitive pricing, and logistical reliability can build trust in international markets. As Ethiopia modernizes, the demand for bitumen continues to soar, and AlJabal is well-positioned to meet this need head-on.
By leveraging its strong logistics network and adherence to international standards, AlJabal Holding is fast becoming the go-to supplier for bitumen in the African continent. The August 2025 shipment is more than just an export—it’s a statement of excellence, a reflection of AlJabal’s vision, and a cornerstone for Ethiopia’s road to modernization.
Introduction to the Shipment
Overview of the Third Shipment
The third shipment of Bitumen 80/100 to Ethiopia marks a major logistics and export success. With 24× 20 ft containers, AlJabal Holding has scaled its delivery capacity to match Ethiopia’s increasing demand. This isn’t a one-off deal—it’s part of a long-term partnership, a strategic initiative aimed at supporting the country’s ambitious infrastructure agenda.
Bitumen 80/100 is a key construction component, especially in asphalt road paving, and AlJabal Holding has built a reputation for delivering consistent, high-quality supply. This shipment comes after two successful deliveries earlier in the year, which were met with positive feedback from local construction firms and government agencies.
AlJabal has streamlined its logistics process—ensuring every shipment adheres to international standards, is carefully packed, and reaches its destination on schedule. These 24 containers reflect not just quantity, but a commitment to quality, from loading at the point of origin to unloading in Ethiopia.
Why This Shipment Matters in 2025
2025 is a critical year for Ethiopia. The government has initiated multiple road construction projects under its National Development Plan, and bitumen is central to this effort. By August, the construction season peaks due to favorable weather conditions, making timely bitumen supply critical.
This third shipment is perfectly timed. It supports not only road construction but also urban development, including airports, industrial parks, and rural connectivity projects. The ability to receive such a large, consolidated shipment allows Ethiopian firms to optimize resources, reduce storage challenges, and plan projects more efficiently.
For AlJabal, it’s a major branding moment—reinforcing its role as a reliable infrastructure partner in Africa. It also enhances trade relations between the UAE and Ethiopia, promoting smoother customs clearance, faster turnaround times, and long-term economic collaboration.
Understanding Bitumen 80/100
What is Bitumen 80/100?
Bitumen 80/100 is a penetration grade bitumen widely used in road construction and infrastructure development. The numbers “80/100” refer to its penetration value, which measures the hardness or softness of the bitumen. A bitumen with a penetration range between 80 and 100 deci-millimeters at 25°C is ideal for moderate to warm climates, making it a perfect fit for countries like Ethiopia.
This grade is produced by distilling crude oil during the refining process, where the heavier fractions are left behind and further processed into bitumen. What makes 80/100 special is its balance of stiffness and flexibility—it offers strong adhesion while still being workable during hot climate conditions.
The smooth texture and thermal properties make it an excellent choice for hot mix asphalt, which is used in road paving, driveways, and airport runways. It’s also used as a sealant for roofs and waterproofing materials due to its water-resistant nature.
Key Specifications and Properties
- Penetration: 80–100 dmm
- Softening Point: 42–52°C
- Viscosity: High at 60°C for better flow
- Flash Point: Above 230°C (Safe for transport and use)
- Ductility: Excellent at standard temperatures
- Solubility: 99.0% minimum in trichloroethylene
These specs make it extremely suitable for flexible pavements, where roads need to adapt to changing temperatures and loads. The high viscosity ensures better binding with aggregates, leading to longer-lasting roads.
AlJabal Holding’s Export Strategy
Strategic Focus on African Markets
AlJabal Holding isn’t new to the export game—but what sets it apart is its targeted approach to market expansion, especially across Africa. Ethiopia has emerged as a strategic partner due to its infrastructure ambitions, population growth, and commitment to modernization.
By focusing on countries with active development projects, AlJabal ensures its shipments directly contribute to economic growth. The African continent, with its urban expansion and international investments, offers a massive opportunity for companies with scalable solutions. AlJabal has seized this moment, prioritizing long-term collaboration over short-term gains.
The company conducts market analysis, partners with local agents, and offers flexible delivery schedules. This adaptive approach ensures they can meet unique country requirements—from port clearance policies to internal transportation norms.
Supply Chain and Logistics Excellence
One of the core strengths behind this third shipment is AlJabal’s logistics mastery. With access to major UAE ports and global freight partners, the company ensures smooth movement of goods—no bottlenecks, no delays.
They utilize:
- Container tracking systems
- Digitized documentation
- End-to-end supply chain visibility
This is particularly important in African markets, where unpredictability can affect project timelines. AlJabal minimizes such risks with pre-emptive planning and redundant logistics channels.
Commitment to Quality and Timely Delivery
Consistency builds trust. AlJabal delivers every batch of bitumen with:
- ISO-certified procedures
- Pre-shipment testing
- Real-time client updates
The company treats every shipment as a milestone, which explains its repeat business from Ethiopian firms. In a sector where delays can cost millions, AlJabal’s reputation for punctuality is gold.
Details of the August 2025 Shipment
Quantity and Type of Containers
The August 2025 shipment consisted of 24 containers, each of 20 feet in length. These containers were custom-loaded with drummed Bitumen 80/100, securely packed and optimized for sea freight. Using drummed packaging ensures safety during transit and ease of unloading upon arrival in Ethiopia.
Each drum weighs around 180–200 kg, and with over 100 drums per container, this shipment carried approximately 400–450 metric tons of high-grade bitumen. The use of multiple containers rather than bulk carriers was strategic—it allows for better handling, storage, and distribution at the destination.
Port of Origin and Destination
- Port of Origin: Jebel Ali Port, UAE
- Destination Port: Port of Djibouti, followed by land transport to Ethiopia
Djibouti acts as a gateway port for landlocked Ethiopia, with efficient customs clearance processes that reduce delays. From Djibouti, AlJabal uses pre-booked trucking services to ensure last-mile delivery to project sites or warehouses in Addis Ababa and other regions.
Shipping Schedule and Timeline
- Loading Completed: August 5, 2025
- Vessel Departure: August 7, 2025
- Arrival in Djibouti: August 15, 2025
- Inland Delivery to Ethiopia: August 16–20, 2025
By managing such a precise timeline, AlJabal showcases its operational efficiency and commitment to timely delivery. Every step of the journey is monitored and recorded, with updates sent to Ethiopian partners in real-time.
Bitumen’s Role in Ethiopia’s Infrastructure
Current Infrastructure Projects Using Bitumen
Ethiopia is currently undergoing one of the most aggressive infrastructure overhauls in its history. Major highway expansions, airport upgrades, industrial zones, and rural connectivity projects are in full swing. Bitumen—especially the 80/100 grade—is at the heart of these projects. The Ethiopian Roads Authority (ERA) has prioritized the use of high-quality bitumen to ensure road longevity and performance.
Ongoing projects like the Modjo–Hawassa Expressway, the Addis Ababa Ring Road expansion, and multiple feeder road programs are consuming thousands of tons of bitumen annually. Most of these roads must endure high volumes of traffic, extreme weather, and heavy freight movement—making the right bitumen grade not just a preference but a necessity.
Local contractors rely heavily on imported bitumen due to its superior quality compared to some regional alternatives. This is where AlJabal Holding’s consistent supply chain and top-tier product make a big difference. The August 2025 shipment feeds directly into these projects, allowing them to stay on track and avoid delays due to material shortages.
Role of Bitumen in Road Construction and Maintenance
Bitumen acts as the binding agent in asphalt concrete, giving roads their elasticity, water resistance, and durability. Ethiopia’s diverse climate—from the dry Afar region to the rainy highlands—requires a bitumen grade that can handle both heat and moisture. Bitumen 80/100 is perfect for this environment, offering the right balance of penetration and softening point.
In addition to initial construction, bitumen is also used extensively in road maintenance, such as patching potholes, resurfacing, and sealing cracks. The cost-effectiveness of bitumen-based solutions makes it the material of choice for government and private contractors alike.
Without a steady supply, many of these projects face setbacks. That’s why the logistics reliability and product quality from suppliers like AlJabal are invaluable. Their August shipment ensures roads don’t just get built—they last longer and perform better.
Demand Forecast for Bitumen in Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s bitumen demand is projected to grow by 15–20% annually for the next five years. As the country’s economy grows, so does its need for urban expansion, rural accessibility, and industrial development—all of which rely on a solid road network.
International investments from China, the UAE, and the EU are pouring into Ethiopia, often tied to infrastructure. These funds require execution at scale—and materials like bitumen must be available in bulk, consistently. AlJabal Holding has recognized this trend and structured its export operations accordingly.
Moreover, Ethiopia’s goal of transforming into a regional logistics hub means future demand will go beyond roads, stretching into runways, ports, and industrial complexes, all of which need bitumen in their construction phases. With demand on the rise, AlJabal’s role will only grow more crucial.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
International Standards Met by AlJabal
One of the biggest challenges in international exports is maintaining compliance with both origin and destination country standards. AlJabal Holding has invested heavily in aligning its production and shipment processes with global benchmarks. All bitumen 80/100 shipments comply with:
- ASTM D946 for penetration-grade bitumen
- EN 12591 standards for performance and consistency
- ISO 9001:2015 quality management certifications
Meeting these benchmarks ensures that Ethiopian contractors receive a product that performs predictably and safely under local conditions. Every container shipped undergoes internal and third-party testing, giving customers confidence in every drum received.
Pre-Shipment Inspection Protocols
Before the bitumen leaves AlJabal’s facility, it goes through a rigorous pre-shipment inspection (PSI) conducted by certified labs. This inspection includes:
- Penetration test
- Softening point analysis
- Ductility test
- Flash point evaluation
- Viscosity check
Additionally, inspectors ensure that all drums are properly sealed, labeled, and palletized according to IMO regulations for sea freight. Each batch is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and Bill of Lading, reducing any possibility of customs delays or product rejection upon arrival.
Quality Testing and Documentation
Beyond compliance, AlJabal believes in transparency and documentation. Customers receive:
- Full test reports for each shipment
- Safety data sheets (SDS)
- Certificates of origin and conformity
- Real-time shipment tracking links
This level of detail creates trust, ensuring that Ethiopian buyers can schedule their usage, plan inventory, and maintain internal quality standards confidently. When contractors know exactly what they’re getting, project execution becomes faster and more efficient.
Economic and Trade Impact
Supporting Bilateral Trade Between UAE and Ethiopia
The successful execution of AlJabal’s third bitumen shipment is a win for UAE-Ethiopia bilateral trade. It showcases how Gulf countries are stepping in to support Africa’s development not just through aid, but strategic commerce.
The UAE has been diversifying its export portfolio, and construction materials like bitumen are at the forefront. For Ethiopia, these imports represent quality investments in infrastructure, directly influencing GDP growth and public welfare. Trade like this strengthens diplomatic ties and opens the door for more government-to-government contracts and public-private partnerships (PPPs).
Contribution to Regional Development
Infrastructure isn’t just about roads—it’s about regional transformation. With each kilometer of road laid using AlJabal’s bitumen, rural areas get connected to cities, farmers reach new markets, and businesses operate more efficiently.
This third shipment in August 2025 directly contributes to projects that improve public transportation, enhance tourism access, and enable emergency response systems. By helping Ethiopia build, AlJabal is investing in a more connected, prosperous East Africa.
Empowering Local Contractors and Developers
Local contractors often face challenges sourcing consistent, high-grade materials. With AlJabal as a partner, they gain access to a steady, high-quality supply chain, giving them the tools to compete for larger contracts and complete them on time.
In turn, this empowers Ethiopian companies to grow, hire more staff, and contribute to the local economy. AlJabal’s shipment isn’t just a transaction—it’s a catalyst for capacity building in the region.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Eco-Friendly Packaging and Shipping Practices
Sustainability is a growing concern in global trade, and AlJabal Holding is taking active steps to reduce its carbon footprint. All drums used for bitumen packaging are recyclable, made from eco-friendly steel, and labeled with low-VOC inks.
During loading, efforts are made to optimize container space to reduce the number of shipments needed, ultimately lowering carbon emissions per ton. The packaging also minimizes leakage and waste, reducing environmental hazards both at sea and on-site.
Reduced Emissions in Transportation
AlJabal partners only with freight carriers that follow IMO Tier III emission standards, ensuring that sea transport aligns with global climate commitments. The company also favors multi-modal logistics—combining sea, rail, and trucking—to reduce fuel consumption and optimize routes.
In future shipments, AlJabal is considering using bio-based additives in their bitumen to further reduce environmental impact, particularly during application where fumes can affect air quality.
AlJabal’s Green Vision for the Future
The company has committed to net-zero operations by 2040, and that includes its export division. Every bitumen shipment is part of a larger vision to provide sustainable infrastructure solutions. AlJabal is also exploring carbon offset partnerships for each ton of bitumen shipped—an innovation in the construction materials industry.
By making green choices today, AlJabal is helping countries like Ethiopia build a sustainable future, without compromising on quality or economic growth.
Competitive Edge of AlJabal Holding
Global Supplier with Local Understanding
What truly sets AlJabal Holding apart in the global bitumen export market is its hybrid approach—acting as a large-scale global supplier while maintaining a sharp understanding of local market dynamics. In the case of Ethiopia, this means recognizing the country’s specific infrastructure needs, its climate considerations, and its logistical constraints.
AlJabal doesn’t just ship and forget. The company works closely with on-ground agents, local distributors, and engineering firms to ensure the bitumen is used correctly and effectively. This localized approach has helped AlJabal build long-term client relationships, ensuring repeat business and loyalty.
This competitive edge is further reinforced by multilingual support teams, documentation provided in both English and Amharic (when needed), and the ability to adapt payment terms and delivery schedules to the realities of the Ethiopian market.
Technology Integration in Operations
Innovation is a core pillar of AlJabal Holding’s operations. From warehouse automation in the UAE to blockchain-backed logistics tracking, the company leverages the latest technologies to enhance transparency and reliability.
Clients in Ethiopia receive real-time tracking links, allowing them to follow the shipment from port to project site. Internally, AlJabal uses AI-powered demand forecasting tools to better anticipate regional needs, ensuring there’s no disruption in supply chains.
These tech advancements don’t just benefit the company—they empower Ethiopian buyers to plan their procurement better, avoid stockouts, and maintain construction timelines. When competitors still rely on outdated manual systems, AlJabal leads with digitization and precision.
Customer-Centric Export Model
AlJabal’s export model revolves around the end-user experience. Each client is assigned a dedicated export manager who:
- Manages documentation
- Provides daily shipment updates
- Coordinates with customs and transporters
- Ensures compliance and certifications
This personalized approach ensures Ethiopian buyers receive white-glove service from a company that understands the stakes—delays cost money, quality affects safety, and trust is everything.
Whether it’s a new client ordering their first container or a repeat buyer scaling up for a national highway project, AlJabal adapts its service levels accordingly. That level of customer care isn’t common in the heavy industry sector, but it’s a key reason why AlJabal’s third shipment is far from its last.
Testimonials and Client Feedback
Words from Ethiopian Importers
The success of AlJabal Holding’s shipments isn’t just measured in tons or containers—it’s best measured in the words of satisfied clients. Ethiopian importers who’ve worked with AlJabal consistently highlight three things: quality, punctuality, and professionalism.
One large importer in Addis Ababa shared, “AlJabal has transformed how we view international suppliers. We get the shipment on time, in the right condition, with all paperwork in order. No excuses—just delivery.”
Another regional distributor praised the flexibility offered during customs delays, saying, “Even when things got tight at the border, AlJabal’s team was already two steps ahead. They handled it all while keeping us updated. That kind of service is rare.”
These testimonials aren’t curated PR—they reflect genuine appreciation for partnership and problem-solving. It’s that reliability that builds lasting business ties.
Testimonials from Contractors and Engineers
Beyond importers, construction site engineers and project managers also speak highly of AlJabal’s bitumen. They note how the bitumen melts evenly, binds well, and shows excellent performance even during Ethiopia’s seasonal rains.
Engineers working on rural road development shared, “We’ve tried several brands, but AlJabal’s 80/100 bitumen stands out. Roads stay intact through weather shifts and heavy trucks. It makes our work easier.”
This hands-on feedback from those using the product in the field is crucial. It confirms that the technical specs translate to real-world performance, making AlJabal not just a vendor, but a trusted solutions provider.
Case Studies on Bitumen Usage Success
Several projects in Ethiopia have directly benefited from AlJabal’s shipments:
- The Bahir Dar–Debre Tabor Road Upgrade: 60% of the bitumen used was from AlJabal’s earlier shipments, with zero quality complaints.
- Adama Industrial Zone Road Network: AlJabal’s bitumen allowed the project to finish two months ahead of schedule due to smooth application and reliable supply.
- Community Road Projects in Amhara Region: These relied on the August 2025 shipment, enabling rapid progress before the rainy season hit.
These case studies highlight how AlJabal’s supply isn’t just consistent—it’s transformational for Ethiopia’s infrastructure journey.
Future Outlook
Upcoming Shipments and Market Expansion
AlJabal isn’t slowing down. Following the success of the August 2025 shipment, the company has already scheduled two more shipments to Ethiopia before the end of the year—one in October and another in December.
But Ethiopia is just the beginning. AlJabal is actively exploring expansion into Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, all of which are undergoing massive road and airport construction. These new markets share many characteristics with Ethiopia—growing economies, strong demand for infrastructure, and the need for high-grade, reliable bitumen.
By replicating the Ethiopia model—strategic partnerships, localized understanding, and impeccable logistics—AlJabal plans to become East Africa’s top bitumen supplier within the next two years.
New Product Grades in the Pipeline
While 80/100 remains the most popular grade in East Africa, AlJabal is gearing up to introduce:
- Bitumen 60/70 for heavier traffic areas
- Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) for airport runways and bridges
- Emulsion Bitumen for rural road applications
These new product lines are being designed with direct input from African civil engineers and project managers, ensuring they meet real-world challenges rather than just ticking spec sheets.
Ethiopian buyers will soon have access to a full spectrum of bitumen grades, all from a single trusted source—reducing the hassle of juggling multiple vendors and ensuring consistent quality.
Long-Term Vision for African Markets
AlJabal’s long-term vision goes beyond just selling bitumen—it’s about becoming a strategic infrastructure partner for Africa. This includes:
- Setting up regional storage hubs in East Africa
- Offering technical training for local engineers on optimal bitumen use
- Launching mobile labs for on-site quality testing
By embedding itself in the infrastructure ecosystem, AlJabal wants to play a key role in shaping the roads, cities, and industries of the future across Africa.
Conclusion
The third shipment of Bitumen 80/100 by AlJabal Holding to Ethiopia in August 2025 isn’t just another delivery—it’s a statement of purpose, reliability, and vision. As Ethiopia continues its rise, building the highways, airports, and industrial zones that will define its future, AlJabal stands proudly as a partner in progress.
With 24× 20 ft containers delivered flawlessly, high praise from engineers and importers, and ambitious plans for the region, AlJabal has once again proven that logistics excellence, product quality, and market understanding are the keys to sustainable trade success.
As more African nations look to develop rapidly, they’ll need partners who can deliver not just materials, but value, trust, and innovation. And AlJabal Holding is ready to answer that call—container by container, road by road, future by future.
FAQs
1. What is Bitumen 80/100 used for in Ethiopia?
Bitumen 80/100 is widely used in Ethiopia for asphalt road construction, maintenance, and surfacing due to its optimal hardness and flexibility in warm climates.
2. How does AlJabal ensure quality in bitumen shipments?
AlJabal follows ASTM and ISO standards, conducts pre-shipment inspections, and provides full quality documentation including COAs, SDSs, and test reports.
3. What makes the 80/100 grade suitable for African climates?
Its moderate penetration and softening point make it ideal for regions like Ethiopia that experience both high daytime temperatures and cool nights.
4. How can Ethiopian buyers contact AlJabal Holding?
Buyers can reach AlJabal via their official website, local agents, or through email and phone support. Dedicated export managers handle all client communication.
5. Will AlJabal expand exports to other African countries?
Yes, AlJabal plans to expand into Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, offering new product lines and setting up regional support hubs.
