The joint venture, operating as Edgen Murray Saudi Company, was established in 2008 and opened direct access to the world's 8th largest energy infrastructure market, valued at an estimated $176,674 million.

The new office will stock and sell Edgen Murray products including pressure vessel plates, seamless and welded API 5LX 65 steel pipe, chrome-moly, stainless steel, and nickel alloy flanges and fittings.

Craig Kiefer, chief operating officer of Edgen Murray, said: “The key to success in this region is developing a strong team of people who understand the local market. Our partnership with the Shoaibi Group is shaped by long-term goals that include developing and strengthening key customer relationships.”

As well as increasing Edgen Murray's regional presence and local market knowledge, the joint venture tracks project opportunities with specific emphasis on the energy, refinery, water and power markets.

The initial product focus will be on high-end and high-grade pressure vessel grades used in extreme environments.

Khalid Al-Shoaibi, group director of Shoaibi Group, said: The joint venture has strengthened the group's ability to service the growing energy infrastructure market.

“We have recently concluded a couple of transactions, which are important milestones for the joint venture. Edgen Murray is a clear leader in their sector and we are excited to be working closely with them through this joint venture. It is already gaining traction.”