His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced the launch of the 1 Billion Meals Dates Factory, with an annual production capacity of 150 million date-based food units. Moreover, the announcement took place in the presence of senior Dubai leadership, including H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The factory’s full output will support underprivileged communities globally. As a result, the project reinforced the UAE’s humanitarian positioning and its broader relief mission.
Endowment-based project targets global food security
The facility forms part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives’ investment portfolio. Additionally, it aimed to strengthen food safety nets for countries facing food insecurity, while supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated, “Today we have launched the 1 Billion Meals Dates Factory, the world’s largest endowment-based dates factory. This is a new humanitarian endeavour presented by the UAE to the world and a message of hope for those in need. It is our duty to safeguard human dignity, driven by an unwavering commitment to ensuring food security and a better quality of life for underprivileged communities. The UAE’s legacy is defined by sustainable giving. We are attuned to the suffering of others and steadfast in our response to human needs.”
He added, “This ambitious project is a vital addition to our portfolio of humanitarian initiatives, and a true reflection of our community’s core values. We have full confidence in the capability of our national cadres to deliver this project to the highest standards of production quality and operational efficiency. Our philanthropy initiatives are ongoing, for giving remains the UAE’s true purpose and identity.”
Funding, operations and completion timeline
The project received AED200 million in funding from businessman Mirwais Azizi. Additionally, Al Barakah Dates will manage operations, leveraging its industry expertise and long-standing partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives.
Mohammad Al Gergawi said, “The 1 Billion Meals Dates Factory embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for sustainable giving and elevating humanitarian action to new heights. He noted that the new project is rooted in an institutional approach to delivering world-class projects and focuses on providing food aid and protection against hunger to underprivileged populations worldwide, solidifying the UAE’s standing as a key player in the global fight against hunger and a unique model of limitless generosity.”
Al Gergawi stated, “The 1 Billion Meals Dates Factory launches at a pivotal moment, as millions of people face the threat of malnutrition due to economic challenges and complex crises. This highlights the need for collective efforts to establish a food safety net and provide access to high-value nutritional products. This mission is a key focus of the new facility by MBRGI, reflecting our commitment to leveraging expertise and capabilities to support relief efforts aimed at the world’s most vulnerable populations.”
The factory is under construction in Margham, Dubai, with completion scheduled for the end of 2027. Furthermore, it will produce fortified date-based food products enriched with vitamins and minerals to maximise nutritional value.
Supply chain impact and local sourcing
The project will source dates exclusively from local farms. Therefore, it will support palm cultivation and expand green spaces across the UAE.
Additionally, the facility is expected to generate jobs, strengthen supply chains, and expand the reach of UAE food exports into global markets.
