Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai, UAE – January 2026: DP World has officially inaugurated the Dubai Food District, a transformative rebranding and expansion of the Al Aweer Central Fruit and Vegetable Market. This landmark initiative aspires to establish one of the globe's largest and most sophisticated food trade centers.

The Dubai Food District will roll out in various phases, commencing with phase one in 2027. This enlargement aims to more than double the current market size to an impressive 29 million square feet, creating a multi-category hub for the food trade. The district is intended to enhance food supply chains, boost trade capacity, and fortify regional food security.

This new complex will unify trade, storage, processing, and distribution into a comprehensive ecosystem. Facilities will comprise cold storage units, temperature-regulated warehouses, primary and secondary processing areas, digital administrative services, cash-and-carry setups, and a gourmet food marketplace catering to both business and consumer needs.

Initially revealed in July 2024 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this project extends its offerings well beyond produce to incorporate dairy, gourmet items, staple foods, and unique goods, strengthening Dubai’s role as a global food trade hub.

Since its inception in 2004, the Al Aweer Market has facilitated over 2,500 traders, providing fresh produce to the UAE and surrounding regions. The Dubai Food District aims to continue Al Aweer’s legacy within the food ecosystem while improving efficiency, diversity, and market access, thereby minimizing supply chain risks for enterprises.

His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, stated:
"The Dubai Food District enhances Dubai’s prominence in food trade by merging state-of-the-art infrastructure, global connectivity, and advanced logistics in a singular location. We are empowering farmers, producers, and traders to tap into new markets more swiftly, efficiently, and sustainably."

Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director of DP World GCC, remarked:
"Considering the increasing global food demand and the pressures on supply chains, the Dubai Food District is a vital investment. It will spur innovation in trade and create long-lasting economic impacts."

The district’s prime location affords multimodal connectivity, linking producers and traders to over 20 international markets through DP World’s logistics network. The infrastructure aims to create agile, secure, and cost-effective supply chains, assisting businesses of all sizes in reaching new markets.

DP World will showcase the Dubai Food District at Gulfood 2026, situated at Gulfood Fresh and Logistics, North Hall 12, stand GG.H2.

#Global News