Whirlpool Corporation, a US-based manufacturer of home appliances, plans to expand operations in the UAE and other Middle East countries.

The company will target the high-end market, as it is looking to at least Dh95m worth of sales until mid-2009.

Lorenzo Milani, the company’s general manger for the Mediterranean region, was quoted by Emirates Business as saying that Whirlpool is embarking on a more aggressive presence in emerging markets, particularly the UAE, with its innovative and high-quality products.

Milani said Whirlpool had tendered for 15 development projects over a four-month period since October that involve the furnishing of new apartments in Dubai’s Rolex Towers and Motor City racing complex with kitchen and other home appliances.