Major New Logistics Project Announced
Dubai plans to double the current size of its fruit and vegetable market as part of a major new logistics project. The initiative will establish the world’s largest logistics hub for foodstuffs, fruit, and vegetable trade.
The ambitious project was announced on Wednesday by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE. This expansion is part of Dubai’s broader goal to become a leading destination for markets, export, and re-export operations both regionally and globally across various sectors.
Commitment to Advanced Infrastructure
Sheikh Maktoum emphasized Dubai’s commitment to providing advanced infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities, creating significant commercial and investment opportunities for investors, and supporting the UAE’s food security strategy. “We strive to provide advanced infrastructure and facilities with the latest specifications and best standards, create greater commercial and investment opportunities for investors, support the UAE’s food security strategy,” he said.
The new foodstuffs, fruit, and vegetable market, which will be twice the size of Dubai’s current market, aims to boost the emirate’s attractiveness as a trade hub. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum underscored the initiative’s role in bolstering investment and economic opportunities for the emirate.
A 2020 report by Business Registration & Licensing (BRL) in Dubai revealed that 2,495 businesses were operating in the vegetable and fruit trading sector, including 557 companies in dried vegetables and fruits. The report highlighted Dubai’s modern infrastructure and logistics services that have helped businesses succeed, with many licensed since 1963. The sector employs 8,799 individuals, predominantly businessmen, with an operational and survival rate of 86 percent.
The report also detailed the distribution of licenses across Dubai, with Bur Dubai accounting for the largest share (1,522), followed by Deira (961), and Hatta (12 licenses). Key areas include Ras Al Khor Industrial Area 3, Ras Al Khor, Al Garhoud, and Port Saeed.
Managed by DP World
DP World will manage the development and oversee the expansion of the fruit and vegetable market. This project is expected to create numerous investment opportunities and enhance Dubai’s status as a global trade hub.
Dubai Municipality and DP World signed an agreement to facilitate this development. As part of the agreement, they will introduce a unified trade window, streamlining all procedures and enhancing the entire customer journey.
