PPG and Sigma Paints hosts the Advanced Coatings Technology Seminar 2026

PPG and Sigma Paints hosted the Advanced Coatings Seminar in Abu Dhabi, UAE, bringing together key industry stakeholders ahead of the 5th Middle East Metallurgy, Corrosion & Coatings (MECOC) Expo.

This seminar and expo provided a platform to connect with customers across the region and highlighted advanced coating technologies designed to address critical challenges in the energy and industrial sectors. Focus areas included passive fire protection (PFP), corrosion under insulation (CUI), thermal insulation solutions and high-performance corrosion-resistant systems.

At the Expo

At the MECOC Expo, PPG and Sigma Paints demonstrated their shared commitment to supporting a more sustainable and resilient energy industry. An interactive workshop featured live demonstrations and technical discussions focused on PFP and CUI solutions, offering  participants a hands-on look at coating technologies engineered for demanding operating environments.

During the expo, Chris Magel, segment manager, energy, was recognized by industry peers as MECOC’s Coatings Specialist of the Year, highlighting PPG’s technical leadership and expertise in the field.

At the Seminar

The seminar welcomed customers from across the Middle East, including representatives from ADNOC, ARAMCO, Saipem, NMDC,  Technip, Dubai Dry Docks, SRS, and ACT. Attendees participated in in-depth technical presentations and open discussions centered on the region’s most pressing asset protection challenges.

Six PPG experts shared insights on industry trends and advanced coating solutions:

  • Olga Kolevatova, general manager, Middle East, Egypt, Turkey & Caspian Region
  • Chris Magel, segment manager, energy, EMEA
  • Sarah Sanjuan, global segment director, oil and gas
  • Peter Scott, business development engineering manager, PFP (on behalf of Richard Holiday)
  • Sedi Latifi, business development manager, Middle East

“This is exactly the level of event I had hoped for when starting my work in the Middle East,” said Olga Kolevatova, general manager for the Middle East, Egypt, Turkey and Caspian Region. “We made this event a success, and now it is time to follow-up.”

Through events like the Advanced Coatings Technology Seminar and MECOC Expo, PPG and Sigma Paints continue to strengthen partnerships, share technical expertise, and deliver coating technologies that help protect critical assets and support long-term performance.