Few companies can claim to have shaped entire industries over centuries. Corning Incorporated, with its 175-year track record in material science, stands as one such force.
At a recent event in Dubai, Amitabh Vajpayee, who leads Strategy for India, the Middle East & Africa at Corning Inc., highlighted Corning’s contributions to telecommunications, life sciences, consumer electronics, automotive emissions, and sustainable construction.
He also emphasised the company’s alignment with the UAE’s innovation and sustainability goals, underscoring that Corning’s impact extends far beyond its materials.
A Quiet Giant in Global Infrastructure
Corning’s products may be invisible to the average user, but they are integral to modern life—from the glass in your phone to the fiber optics powering global communication.
“Corning has led material science for over 175 years, employs more than 50,000 people, and generates $15 billion in annual revenue.”
Its innovations span over 30 countries and support more than 50,000 data centers worldwide. In the UAE alone, Corning has maintained a strong presence for over 25 years, supporting both community and sustainability initiatives.
Rewiring the World: Optical Fiber’s Quantum Leap
Corning changed the landscape of global communications in the 1970s by introducing low-cost optical fiber—the result: a medium 65,000 times more efficient than copper wire.
This innovation is now central to AI data centers. With 40% denser fibers and connectivity systems that scale up optical fiber use by 10x, Corning enables hyperscale data operations that are faster, lighter, and more scalable.
“The Corning Glassworks AI solution was recently launched to meet modern hyperscale AI data center needs, prioritizing density, installation speed, scalability, and customization.”
Driving Clean Air: Emission Control Solutions
In response to the air quality crisis of the 1970s, Corning developed ceramic substrates for automotive emission control. This innovation made vehicles 99% cleaner than they were five decades ago, demonstrating the life-saving potential of material science.
Powering Drug Discovery and Healthcare Innovation
Corning’s life sciences division has played a critical role in drug development and disease treatment. From 3D cell cultures to gene therapy platforms, the company’s tools support researchers working on cancer, vaccines, and other global health challenges.
“Corning’s products enable critical applications in cancer treatment and other major diseases, helping scientists deliver life-saving solutions worldwide.”
Reinventing Glass for the Digital Age
Corning has shaped the evolution of consumer electronics—first with the cathode ray tube, then with LCDs, and now with Gorilla Glass, which is featured in over 8 billion devices.
Its innovations not only enhance durability but also redefine user experience across smartphones, TVs, laptops, and even automotive displays.
Building Smarter, Cooler Cities
In regions like the UAE and GCC, where cooling consumes 80% of energy and 30% of that is lost through windows, Corning’s lightweight, thermal-resistant glass offers a practical solution.
“These thermal-resistant glasses reduce energy loss from buildings… supporting sustainable construction.”
The company has also moved into solar, manufacturing polysilicon to ingot wafers, reinforcing its role in advancing clean energy infrastructure.
The Innovation Engine: Collaboration at the Core
At the heart of Corning’s strategy lies deep collaboration—with customers, scientists, and governments.
“The company emphasizes listening, learning, and co-creating with partners, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a smarter, more connected, and sustainable future.”
By evolving its portfolio every two to three decades, Corning ensures its technologies stay relevant and impactful, adapting to new industries and challenges as they emerge.
Corning’s legacy proves that material science isn’t just about substances—it’s about solving human problems. From improving air quality to enabling AI and supporting cancer research, Corning’s innovations continue to transform the world in quiet yet powerful ways. As the UAE and other regions push for sustainable, tech-driven growth, Corning stands as both a partner and a catalyst.
