YORK Manufacturing Complex: Local Production, Global Standards

YORK Manufacturing Complex: Local Production, Global Standards

YORK Manufacturing Complex in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) is a cutting-edge HVAC equipment manufacturing facility. It spans 200,000 sqm and is the largest Johnson Controls International (JCI) factory in MENA, Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.

The site integrates advanced production lines, R&D labs, and testing centers. Its key features include:

Strategic Location: Proximity to King Abdullah Port ensures efficient logistics and export operations across regional and international markets.

Production Excellence: The factory features multiple advanced assembly lines, including Saudi Arabia's first 600-ton air-cooled chiller line, supporting both local and export in compliance with the "Saudi Made" certification program.

Skilled Workforce: Over 350 workers operate within the facility, supported by continuous training initiatives that align with Saudi Vision 2030 workforce goals.

Contents

Local Manufacturing Benefits: Advancing Saudi HVAC Sector

  • Faster Delivery and Regional Reach
  • Workforce Development and Technical Expertise
  • Strengthening the Regional Supply Chain
  • Commitment to the “Saudi Made” Program

Global Standards Compliance

  • AHRI-Certified Testing
  • ISO and Quality Systems
  • Sustainability Practices

Empowering Innovation at the YORK Manufacturing Complex

  • OpenBlue Innovation Center
  • Smart HVAC Technologies
  • Advanced Chiller Manufacturing
  • Research and Development

Regional and Global Impact

  • Major Export Contracts
  • Global Market Reach

Local Manufacturing Benefits: Advancing Saudi HVAC Sector

Local production of YORK equipment within Saudi Arabia delivers a range of strategic advantages that extend beyond operational efficiency. The complex in KAEC plays a central role in advancing the Kingdom's industrial, economic, and workforce objectives.

Workforce Development and Technical Expertise

The facility employs more than 350 professionals, including engineers, technicians, and production specialists. Johnson Controls Arabia invests heavily in continuous training programs to build technical proficiency and foster local leadership within the HVAC manufacturing sector. These initiatives align with Saudi Vision 2030 by promoting national employment, knowledge transfer, and long-term skill development.

Strengthening the Regional Supply Chain

By prioritizing local sourcing and partnerships with Saudi suppliers, the JCA factory contributes to a more resilient and sustainable supply chain. The increased use of regionally manufactured components and collaboration with small and medium enterprises stimulates domestic industry, drives innovation, and strengthens the broader national manufacturing ecosystem.

Commitment to the "Saudi Made" Program

Approximately 80% of Johnson Controls Arabia's sales are fulfilled by products manufactured at the YORK manufacturing complex. Each unit produced carries the "Saudi-Made" label, reflecting both high production standards and a commitment to national industrial growth. This local manufacturing model supports economic diversification while reinforcing consumer confidence in Saudi-built, globally certified products.

Global Standards Compliance

YORK Manufacturing Complex in KAEC meets rigorous international benchmarks:

AHRI-Certified Testing

Its on-site lab is AHRI-certified for up to 600-ton chillers. This allows factory acceptance testing and certification locally, ensuring equipment performance is verified to global standards.

ISO and Quality Systems

Manufacturing processes adhere to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards. Additional certifications, including Eurovent, CE, UL, and ARI, mean all products comply with the toughest safety and performance regulations.

Sustainability Practices

YORK products are built to deliver high energy efficiency. The complex incorporates green design and operations, exemplified by the region's first OpenBlue Zero Emissions center (Net-0), reflecting the commitment to environmental standards.

Empowering Innovation at the YORK Manufacturing Complex

The factory is an innovation hub for smart, sustainable HVAC solutions, including:

OpenBlue Innovation Center

The facility houses Johnson Controls' regional OpenBlue Zero-Emissions lab. As one of JCI's few global net-zero centers, it pioneers building technologies that minimize energy use and carbon emissions.

Smart HVAC Technologies

The latest YORK systems incorporate AI-driven features and IoT connectivity, enabling real-time monitoring and adaptive performance control. These systems automatically adjust temperature, airflow, and humidity to maintain optimal indoor comfort while minimizing energy consumption and improving air quality.

Advanced Chiller Manufacturing

The complex now produces the flagship unit, YORK YVAA chiller. Saudi Arabia has become the third country (after the US and China) to build this advanced chiller, benefiting from reduced costs and delivery times through local production.

Research and Development

Johnson Controls Arabia's R&D center tailors products for regional markets. By aligning designs with Middle East and African requirements, the factory accelerates time-to-market for new solutions and ensures regional relevance.

Regional and Global Impact

YORK Manufacturing Complex drives significant economic and industrial growth:

Major Export Contracts

It has become a launchpad for Saudi non-oil exports. In 2025, Saudi Arabia signed an agreement to export 5,400 Saudi-made YORK AC units to a major real estate development project in Egypt, showcasing the factory's role in boosting the Kingdom's export portfolio.

Global Market Reach

Roughly 30% of YORK Manufacturing Complex products serve foreign customers. The facility supplies over 26 countries, including key markets like the US and China, delivering advanced HVAC systems abroad and enhancing the global reputation of Saudi manufacturing.

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