DP World Group unveils “Dubai Food District”

DP World Group officially unveiled the Dubai Food District, in a move that represents a strategic expansion and comprehensive redevelopment of the Al Awir Central Fruit and Vegetable Market, to transform it into the largest and most modern global food trade center, according to a press release issued by the group.

The project, which was announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, in July 2024, will include a broader scope to include the trade of vegetables and fruits, dairy and cheese products, luxury foods, basic foodstuffs, and specialized products, which enhances Dubai’s position as an integrated gateway to food trade globally.

The new project extends over an area of ​​29 million square feet, equivalent to more than twice the size of the current market, to form an integrated, multi-category center for food trade, aiming to strengthen food supply chains, expand trade capabilities, and support regional food security.

The Dubai Food District will be developed in several phases, with the first phase launching in 2027. The zone will provide an integrated system for the food sector that includes advanced facilities for cold storage and temperature-controlled warehouses, primary and secondary processing centers, digital solutions for managing operations, in addition to wholesale and retail facilities, and a hall dedicated to fine foods to serve the business and consumer sectors alike.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World Group, said: “Dubai Food Park will strengthen Dubai’s leadership in the food trade sector by bringing together world-class infrastructure, global logistics connectivity, and advanced solutions in one location. We enable farmers, producers and traders to access new markets more quickly, with greater efficiency and with greater sustainability.”

Abdullah bin Demaithan, CEO and General Manager of DB World GCC, said: “With the increasing global demand for food and the pressures facing supply chains, the Dubai Food District represents a pivotal investment that keeps pace with these challenges. It was designed to be a launching pad for trade-based innovation in the food sector, and a major supporter of the country’s industrial strategy, which contributes to achieving a sustainable economic impact in the long term.”

The Dubai Food District location has the advantage of multi-modal logistical connectivity, which allows suppliers and merchants to access more than 20 markets around the world through the global “DB World” network. The project’s infrastructure is designed to enhance the flexibility and efficiency of supply chains, ensure their security and reduce their operational costs, enabling companies of all sizes to enter new markets more quickly and more efficiently.