When Bahrain International Airport needed advanced coating solutions for their prestigious fountain installations, Unitco's technology proved the perfect match.
This major project also marked a significant milestone in our company's leadership development, as next-generation leadership gained hands-on experience.
We sat down with Hasan Hamed Ahmed to discuss his journey from international finance to the family business, his experience with this project, and his vision for the future.
Hasan: I'm truly grateful for the educational opportunities I had in Chicago and Boston, and my experience with structured trade financing at one of Europe's largest banks. But when I returned to the family business during COVID, my father immediately immersed me in real-world experience.
On my first day, he put me on the Bahrain International Airport fountain project – one of the Kingdom's largest infrastructure projects.
It was the best orientation I could have asked for.
Hasan: It was humbling and transformative.
One day I was in a prime banking office, the next day I was on-site learning safety protocols, working alongside specialists, understanding the entire ecosystem – from consultants to main contractors to subcontractors.
We were applying our solvent-free epoxy coating to four large fountains outside the arrival hall, working with a JV between TAV Turkey and Arabtec UAE.
The learning curve was steep, but incredibly valuable.
Hasan: We used our advanced solvent-free epoxy coating – a two-component, high-build system perfect for water applications.
With low-VOC content, it's environmentally friendly while providing excellent chemical and abrasion resistance.
The 250-micron thickness in one coat made it ideal for the fountain application. Seeing our technology protect such a prestigious national landmark was inspiring.
Hasan: I fell in love with the business during that experience.
I spent lockdown studying coating technology, understanding our products deeply.
Today, my focus is on strengthening our foundation – improving corporate governance, implementing new management systems, advancing product development.
My father's passion still drives daily operations, which motivates and inspires me tremendously.
Hasan: The market is shifting toward budget options, so we've introduced competitive lines. But more importantly, there's growing demand for specialized, performance-based coatings that add real value.
We're developing solutions that address specific functional needs – like our antimicrobial coatings for healthcare or heat-reflective systems for energy efficiency.
Hasan: The future is incredibly bright. This company is a gold mine with tremendous growth opportunities. We have the right technical capabilities, manufacturing capacity, and market relationships to expand internationally.
I'm grateful for every opportunity and blessing we've received. While I'm still learning and building experience, I can see the enormous potential we have to strengthen our position regionally and globally.
Hasan: Watching our chairman's unwavering passion for this business he built – that energy is contagious.
We're not just manufacturing coatings; we're protecting infrastructure, enhancing environments, contributing to Bahrain's industrial heritage.
I've developed my own 'Surface Intelligence' approach, focusing on understanding exactly what each application needs and delivering solutions that exceed expectations.
Hasan: I'm incredibly optimistic. We have strong foundations, innovative products like our zero-VOC solutions, proven project capabilities, and a team that understands both local market needs and international standards.
The opportunities for growth and expansion are endless. Most importantly, we maintain our commitment to quality, sustainability, and the 'Made in Bahrain' pride that has defined us for decades.
Mr. Hasan Hamed Ahmed
Mr. Hasan Hamed Ahmed
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