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Dubai Int’l Chamber to launch trade mission to Serbia, Türkiye

During the session, participants were introduced to the mission’s programme, which will feature bilateral business meetings between Dubai-based companies and their counterparts in Serbia and Türkiye…reports Asian Lite News

During the session, participants were introduced to the mission’s programme, which will feature bilateral business meetings between Dubai-based companies and their counterparts in Serbia and Türkiye…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced the completion of preparations for its upcoming trade mission to Serbia and Türkiye, scheduled from 6th to 11th October. The mission is part of the ‘New Horizons’ initiative, which supports the expansion of Dubai-based businesses into priority global markets.

The Chamber hosted a briefing session today at its headquarters for members of the trade mission’s delegation, which includes representatives from companies across various sectors such as electronics, food and beverages, pipeline products, information technology, brand protection, technology, airport services, retail, textiles, and energy and mobility solutions.

During the session, participants were introduced to the mission’s programme, which will feature bilateral business meetings between Dubai-based companies and their counterparts in Serbia and Türkiye. These meetings aim to provide a platform for exploring opportunities for cooperation, expansion, and new trade and investment agreements. The delegation received detailed briefings on the mission and comprehensive market intelligence for both countries.

The ‘New Horizons’ initiative is part of Dubai International Chamber’s broader efforts to promote the global expansion of Dubai-based companies, enabling them to capitalise on opportunities in new international markets. The initiative aims to help companies explore business opportunities in 30 priority markets and is aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).

In the first half of this year, the Chamber organised two trade missions to Southeast Asia and West Africa, facilitating over 830 B2B meetings between participating companies from Dubai and these markets to explore investment opportunities and joint economic partnerships.

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Sheikh Mohammed meets HSBC chief in Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Dubai as a symbol of creativity and innovation…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted that the UAE and Dubai draw upon a distinctive vision and clear roadmap for development, with the focus set on social, economic and investment priorities. The nation has read the future well, closely tracking global changes, always ready to seize positive opportunities.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was addressing his weekly Majlis in Za’abeel Palace. The Majlis was also attended by a group of local dignitaries, senior government officials, women’s leaders, investors, businesspersons, and members of the Federal National Council.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Dubai as a symbol of creativity and innovation, reflecting prosperity and sustainable development, with its achievements rooted in a strong work ethic and dedicated workforce. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a key investment hub, a vital link in global trade, and a leading tourism destination.

He discussed with attendees ways to advance development across diverse sectors, aligning with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, all while keeping pace with rapid global developments.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also met with Sir Mark Tucker, Group Chairman of HSBC Holdings, one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations, on the sidelines of the Majlis.

During the meeting, he stressed Dubai’s commitment to building strong partnerships with leading global financial institutions, as part of its vision to create a new phase of growth and innovation in the region. He further said that Dubai offers world-class infrastructure and agile legislation that meets the industry’s needs in a rapidly changing global environment, enabling companies like HSBC to explore new opportunities and expand their business in the region and beyond.

By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, Dubai continues to unlock fresh opportunities for investment and create a thriving, sustainable financial ecosystem that will evolve and drive success and value creation, His Highness noted.

The discussions touched on HSBC’s operations in the region, expansion plans, and the new opportunities emerging for financial companies from Dubai’s growth as a global economic hub. HSBC, which has been operating in the UAE for more than 76 years, is the largest foreign bank in the country. The bank had a net profit of $1 billion in the UAE in 2023. The bank employs 590 Emiratis, reflecting its deep integration into the UAE’s financial sector. HSBC has over 40 million customers in 62 countries and territories across the world.

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CBSE opens first overseas office and Centre of Excellence in Dubai

The session provided a platform to discuss the new office’s goals, scope, and its expected impact on the region….reports Asian Lite News

In a historic move to strengthen Indian education in the UAE, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched its first Regional Office (RO) and Centre of Excellence (CoE) outside India, situated in Dubai.

The milestone was marked with a special orientation session on Teachers’ Day between CBSE officials, representatives from the Indian Mission in Dubai, and principals from 78 schools across Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

The session provided a platform to discuss the new office’s goals, scope, and its expected impact on the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the opening of the CBSE RO & CoE in Dubai on February 13, 2024, during his visit to the UAE, and operations of this office officially commenced on July 2, 2024, at the Consulate General of India, Dubai, UAE.

During the orientation, Dr. Ram Shankar, Director of CBSE RO & CoE in Dubai, presented a detailed overview of CBSE’s mission in the region. He highlighted the board’s key objectives, particularly its role in promoting learning outcome-based education and fostering new dimensions in teaching.

He emphasised that CBSE would adopt a model focussing on outcome-based learning and offer subjects at multiple levels to meet varying student capabilities.

The board will also promote art-integrated learning and health education as part of a more holistic educational approach, alongside the introduction of new skill subjects aligned with global educational trends.

The CBSE Regional Office is also engaged in a series of assessment reforms designed to make education more competency-based and student-friendly.

This includes the implementation of case-based and competency-focused questions, strengthening internal assessments, and developing Annual Pedagogical Plans. The board also aims to promote experiential learning through innovative methods such as sports, storytelling, and toy-based learning.

The new regional office in Dubai will play a crucial role in overseeing examinations in the region. The Centre of Excellence will focus on in-service teacher training, equipping educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to stay ahead of educational innovations and global teaching methodologies.

In his address, the Consul General of India in Dubai, Satish Kumar Sivan, emphasised the importance of this new development, stating, “The Centre for Excellence will empower teachers with cutting-edge training, enabling them to stay updated on best practices and innovative technologies.

“This will enrich the learning experience for students.” He added, “The office will significantly enhance CBSE’s support and resources for students, educators, and parents in the region. It represents the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of thousands of stakeholders who will benefit from its operations. The CBSE office will serve as a beacon of excellence and a hub for academic support for years to come.” (ANI)

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Dubai’s summer experiences offer maximum value

Suhaila Ghubash, VP – Events and Festivals at Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), emphasised DSS’s commitment to offering value-driven experiences that appeal to today’s savvy consumers…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai has consistently adapted to the changing preferences of modern shoppers and visitors, driving consumer confidence and boosting tourism each year. The city’s value-driven, world-class offerings align with the growing demand for affordable retail and exceptional experiences, as highlighted by 47 percent of UAE consumers prioritising budget-friendly options.

Key to this success are Dubai’s year-round retail events, including the ongoing 27th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), the largest to date. This year, DSS features 10 weeks of sales across over 800 brands and 3,500 outlets, with more than 7,000 offers and free activities for residents and visitors.

Suhaila Ghubash, VP – Events and Festivals at Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), emphasised DSS’s commitment to offering value-driven experiences that appeal to today’s savvy consumers. The event is designed to create memorable, accessible summer experiences that cater to all preferences and budgets, driving economic growth.

DSS 2024 is a cornerstone of Dubai’s summer, boosting retail spending through mega raffles, promotions worth AED 50 million, and a packed calendar of mall activations and live performances. The event also features exclusive deals at hotels, resorts, and attractions, including the DSS Entertainer edition with over 7,000 buy-one-get-one offers.

Dubai’s diverse dining scene also plays a significant role in summer tourism. The inaugural Sizzling Summer Eats and the upcoming Summer Restaurant Week offer exceptional value at top dining destinations, further enhancing Dubai’s appeal as a global gastronomy hub.

Ghubash concluded, “DSS 2024 is about inclusivity and affordability, ensuring that everyone can enjoy an exciting and accessible summer in Dubai.”

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Vibrant Flavours of Modern Indian Cuisine at Bombay Brasserie: Taj Dubai’s Premier Dining Destination

Bombay Brasserie, the acclaimed dining destination nestled within Taj Dubai, invites discerning diners to embark on a culinary extravaganza that showcases the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine in a contemporary setting. Renowned for its Indian sharing food, innovative cocktails, and unparalleled Taj service, Bombay Brasserie promises an unforgettable dining experience set against a backdrop of vibrant colors and eclectic ambiance. At Bombay Brasserie, every visit is a sensorial delight. Guests are welcomed into a world where tradition meets innovation, where the flavors of India are reimagined with a modern twist. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

The restaurant’s open kitchen invites diners to witness the culinary mastery firsthand, while oversized art pieces adorn the walls, adding a touch of drama to the ambiance. For those seeking a lunchtime indulgence, Bombay Brasserie presents its Thali Lunch offering, available Sunday to Friday from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. Priced at AED 125, guests can savor an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, curated to tantalize the taste buds and evoke the essence of India’s diverse culinary landscape.

In the evening, Bombay Brasserie transforms into a hub of culinary excitement with its Live Interactive Kitchen experience, available daily with two seating options: 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm or 9:00 pm to Midnight. Embark on an exclusive gastronomic journey led by our culinary gurus, as they guide you through a four-course meal showcasing the best of Indian cuisine. Priced at AED 395 per person, this immersive dining experience promises to be a feast for the senses.

Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or an evening of culinary exploration, Bombay Brasserie is the perfect restaurant in Dubai to discover the true essence of modern Indian dining amidst luxurious surroundings at Taj. The cuisine taste is sublime, the flavours are enchanting, the presentation of dishes is exquisite, the service is top-notch, the vibe at the restaurant is sophisticated.  In a nutshell the whole dining experience here is unparalleled and absolutely remarkable. Highly Recommend it! 

About Taj Dubai

Taj Dubai stands as an urban icon in one of the world’s most dynamic and exhilarating cities. Boasting world-class dining, wellness facilities, and a range of activities, it distinguishes itself among the Taj hotels in Dubai. A captivating blend of Taj Dubai’s illustrious heritage and impeccable hospitality intertwine with contemporary luxury and distinctive local touches. Behind the soaring grey glass and steel of its exterior is a melange of colours, indulgence and a remarkable diversity of restaurants. Despite its central location in the business hub, this 5-star hotel in Dubai is crafted to prioritise the comfort and relaxation of its guests.

About Taj

Established in 1903, Taj is The Indian Hotels Company Limited’s (IHCL) iconic brand for the world’s most discerning travellers seeking authentic experiences in luxury and has been rated as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand and India’s Strongest Hospitality Brand as per Brand Finance 2022. From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Grand Palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivalled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. The unique portfolio comprises hotels across the globe including presence in India, Middle East, North America, United Kingdom, Africa, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan, and Nepal.

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GCC leads Dubai Chamber’s H1-24 exports

The GCC region accounted for 53.9% of total exports and re-exports with a combined value of around AED78.6 billion…reports Asian Lite News

 Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has revealed that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market remained the top global export and re-export destination for its member companies during the first half of 2024.

The GCC region accounted for 53.9% of total exports and re-exports with a combined value of around AED78.6 billion, underlining the market’s continuing significance for the chamber’s members.

In a press release on Monday, the Dubai Chamber said, “Non-GCC countries in the Middle East region ranked second among members’ top export destinations, accounting for 23.9% of exports and re-exports with a total value of AED34.9 billion.”

African markets ranked third among the leading destinations for members’ exports and re-exports during H1 2024, accounting for 9.9% of the total with a combined value of AED14.5 billion.

The Asia-Pacific region ranked fourth on the list, accounting for 9.2% of exports with a value of approximately AED13.4 billion.

European markets came in fifth place, accounting for 1.9% of total exports and re-exports with a value of AED2.8 billion. Meanwhile, North America ranked sixth with 0.6% of the total exports and re-exports and a combined value of AED946 million.

Latin American markets ranked seventh, accounting for around 0.6% of total exports and re-exports with a value of approximately AED839 million.

The combined value of exports and re-exports by all members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached approximately AED145.9 billion during H1 2024, and the chamber issued 372,720 certificates of origin.

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Dubai’s GDP tops Dh115b, records 3.2% Q1 growth

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted Dubai’s robust economy with 3.2% growth in Q1 2024, adding over AED 115 billion to GDP….reports Asian Lite News

Dubai’s economy continues to grow steadily and showcase robust economic indicators, said H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The strength of Dubai’s economy is amply demonstrated in the 3.2 percent economic growth it achieved in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year, by adding more than AED 115 billion in GDP terms, Sheikh Hamdan said.

Sheikh Hamdan said it is especially commendable that the emirate’s successes in this regard highlight the combined efforts and teamwork of various stakeholders to realise the objectives of the emirate’s comprehensive development plans for 2033, specially the Dubai economic Agenda (D33) and Dubai Social Agenda 2033, which serve to enhance overall standards of wellbeing and quality of life while consolidating Dubai’s standing as a global economic capital and its attractiveness as a destination for foreign investments.

Sheikh Hamdan said: “Dubai is progressing in accordance with a clear vision whose foundations were laid down and whose goals were defined by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. What we witness today is a practical reflection of this vision, which has placed Dubai among the leading economic and commercial centres of the world.”

He added: “Dubai’s ambition is limitless, and its success story will remain a role model for cities wishing to create a promising future for their coming generations. Our goal is to sustain success and establish a culture of excellence and leadership across all sectors in the emirate to preserve these gains and move towards new horizons of excellence.”

The growth in Dubai’s GDP is the result of growth achieved in various vital sectors that constitute the basic pillars of the economic system in the emirate. The transportation and storage sector, and the financial and insurance activities sector achieved identical growth rates of 5.6 percent, the trade sector logged a growth of 3 percent, the information and communications sector posted a growth of 3.9 percent, the accommodation and food services activities sector grew 3.8 percent, and the real estate sector achieved a growth of 3.7 percent.

The economic growth in the first quarter of the year mirrors the success story of 2023, when the GDP reached approximately AED 429 billion, marking an increase of 3.3 percent compared to the 2022 figure of approximately AED 415 billion.

Outstanding display

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, (DET), said: “Dubai’s impressive quarterly growth performance underscores the sustained momentum and confidence within its dynamic business ecosystem, reflecting the robust diversification of our economic foundations. We remain committed to advancing the comprehensive economic framework set forth in Dubai’s Economic Agenda 2033, continuously refining and leveraging various economic instruments to enhance competitiveness, attract substantial investment, and facilitate seamless business operations.”

He added: “This achievement is a testament to the clear, stable, and forward-thinking leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and with high-impact initiatives such as the Foreign Direct Investment Development Programme to attract selective investments aligned with the D33 Agenda and the implementation of the Dubai Economic Model to monitor the city’s advancement, we are poised to further energise our growth initiatives. These measures will enhance collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders, propelling Dubai towards its goal of achieving top global status for economic growth and becoming a prime destination for business, talent, and investment.”

An upward trajectory

In this context, Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, said: “The upward trajectory of economic growth indicators across various sectors shows that Dubai, under its wise leadership, is confidently moving towards enhancing its economic leadership and investment attractiveness. This progress is supported by economic diversification and the adoption of the latest technologies and solutions, including digital transformation, which has made the emirate a destination for entrepreneurs and those interested in creating successful experiences. Dubai’s economy has always drawn its strength from flexibility, keeping pace with changes, and proactive thinking that anticipates major economic transformations in the world, most notably the digital economy supported by artificial intelligence and data.”

Data to support decisions

Younus Al Nasser, Chief Executive of the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment, emphasised the importance of providing accurate data on various economic sectors and their total contribution to the emirate’s growth. This data supports the leadership’s decision-making process and the development of relevant strategies and policies that contribute to achieving the city’s goals in all fields, he said.

“The recent data showing Dubai’s economy has grown by 3.2 percent compared to the same period last year gives us an indication about the future of the emirate’s economy. Dubai has always positioned itself as a leading example in attracting investments mainly in emerging technologies, which represents the backbone that supports the development of all sectors,” he added.

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Dubai South wraps up UAE’s first autonomous truck trials

The trials were carried out on a set route in a closed area of the Dubai South Logistics District….reports Asian Lite News

Dubai South, the largest single-urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics, and real estate, announced the successful completion of the first stage of the UAE’s autonomous vehicle trials in partnership with Evocargo.

The trials were carried out on a set route in a closed area of the Dubai South Logistics District.

During the trials, Evocargo checked and validated the hardware, software, and reliability of its unmanned electric truck, the Evocargo N1, for future service in the Logistics District.

Autonomous navigation on a predefined route was tested with special emphasis on safety in mixed traffic scenarios involving interaction with other participants like automobiles, trucks and pedestrians. The tests measured success of the Evocargo N1 in object detection, accident prevention, collision avoidance with moving obstacles and emergency stops.

The truck’s autopilot system was tested in a full range of manoeuvres (parking, reverse parking, turning, and reverse turning). The control centre’s functionality (route management, remote monitoring, and control) was also tested. No failures or potentially hazardous incidents were reported by any parties during the series of tests.

Additionally, Evocargo prepared a comprehensive report of trial results across two stages. In the second, the Evocargo N1 platform carried out freight transportation tasks on a standard route in a closed area.

The platform’s ability to respond to its surrounding environment in mixed traffic was extensively tested and met high validation standards.

In his comments, Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District – Dubai South, said, “We are proud of this groundbreaking milestone, which is a testament to Dubai South’s commitment to aligning with the wise leadership’s vision of establishing Dubai as a global logistics powerhouse. Our collaboration with Evocargo reinforced the UAE’s position in the industry and set a progressive stage for significant advancements within the regional logistics sector.

“As we look to the future, autonomous vehicles will play a pivotal role in revolutionising the industry, enhancing efficiency, and reducing the overall carbon footprint to create a sustainable and technologically advanced logistics infrastructure that will benefit Dubai and the UAE.”

Ahmed Al-Ansi, CEO of Evocargo Autonomous Logistic Services, said, “The trials aim to attract new customers and investments in the GCC countries, which are on track for world leadership in innovative tech. We are proud to be a pioneer and one of the first commercial suppliers of cutting-edge services in cargo transportation based on our own electric unmanned vehicles.”

Dubai South and Evocargo agreed to carry out the UAE’s first autonomous electric vehicle trials in a memorandum of understanding signed in December 2022.

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Dubai Civil Defence honoured with NFPA global safety award

Major General Jamal Bin Adeith Almehairi, Assistant Director General of Dubai Civil Defence, accepted the award on behalf of the Ministry of Interior

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced that the Dubai Civil Defence, led by the Ministry of Interior, has been awarded the inaugural NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award. Major General Jamal Bin Adeith Almehairi, Assistant Director General of Dubai Civil Defence, accepted the award on behalf of the Ministry of Interior and in honour of His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, and Lieutenant General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, the General Director of Dubai Civil Defence, for their unwavering dedication to enhancing safety.

The presentation of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award took place at the NFPA Stars at Night awards ceremony during the annual NFPA Conference & Expo® (C&E) in Orlando. This newly established award by NFPA recognizes individuals or organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to advancing safety through the principles of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem™. Inspired by the international work of former NFPA board member Hatem Kheir, this award celebrates global leaders who set outstanding standards in fire and life safety.

Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, the Dubai Civil Defence has become a beacon of innovation and excellence. Their integration of cutting-edge technologies, rigorous training programs, and proactive community outreach has significantly elevated fire and life safety standards in Dubai and globally. The award also highlights the UAE’s commitment to using and enforcing the latest codes and standards and its innovative firefighting and emergency management approaches.

Major General Jamal Bin Adeith Almehairi, Assistant Director General of Dubai Civil Defense accepted the award from NFPA on behalf of Dubai Civil Defense

“Dubai Civil Defence led by the Ministry of Interior has made exceptional progress in the adoption of smart technology and extensive training programs to deliver vital safety and security services, ultimately improving the quality of life for the UAE community and raising emergency preparedness and disaster management awareness. We are proud to recognize their efforts in setting global standards in fire and life safety. By honoring entities like the Dubai Civil Defence led by the Ministry of Interior, this award promotes the adoption of best practices in fire, life, and property safety and crisis management, setting a high standard globally. It encourages other organizations worldwide to strive for similar excellence in protecting lives and property,” said Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development MENA at NFPA.

Among the initiatives led by the Ministry of Interior of the United Arab Emirates is the International Initiative for Law Enforcement for Climate (I2LEC). Launched at the World Government Summit in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in 2023, I2LEC aims to establish a collaborative approach among law enforcement agencies, international organizations, and governments. This initiative seeks to create global frameworks to build research capacities for law enforcement agencies to combat environmental crimes.

In its first year, I2LEC obtained the support of over 60 law enforcement agencies worldwide and contributed to seizing more than $32 million in proceeds from environmental crimes through international joint operations. Additionally, the initiative trained over 270 law enforcement officials from more than 40 countries. These efforts reflect the UAE’s belief that sustainable development cannot be achieved without ensuring community safety and stability and enhancing global cooperation and partnerships.

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Dubai to have ‘world’s largest’ food logistics hub

DP World has been entrusted with the management, operation, and development of the market, linking it with markets globally….reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, announced the development of the Logistics Hub for Foodstuffs, Fruit and Vegetable Trade, the largest such facility in the world, serving the world’s largest market for foodstuffs, fruits and vegetables.

This initiative aligns with the emirate’s strategies to enhance investment and economic opportunities, thus contributing to the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy and transform it into one of the top three economic cities globally by 2033. The project also aims to improve quality of life for Dubai’s residents and enhance the city’s overall attractiveness and livability.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said, “Today, we have launched our plan to develop the largest logistics hub in the world for the trade of foodstuffs, fruits and vegetables. This expansion and doubling of the current market area will support our economic agenda and create larger commercial and investment opportunities. We have entrusted DP World with the management, operation, and development of the market, linking it with markets globally.”

His Highness added, “Dubai’s strategic location and advanced facilities make it a commercial and investment hub that attracts major companies. Our efforts will double in the coming period to enhance the emirate’s role in creating investment opportunities for global companies and youth, integrating them into developmental projects. Dubai aims to be a leading destination for markets, export, and re-export operations across various sectors, maximising economic opportunities for investors in this field.”

In line with His Highness’s directives and under the supervision of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, witnessed the signing of a partnership agreement between Dubai Municipality and DP World.

This agreement marks the creation and management of the ‘Foodstuffs, Fruits and Vegetables Market,’ set to be the largest of its kind globally.

The agreement was signed by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, and Dawood Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality.

Sheikh Maktoum emphasised that Dubai is advancing under the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, aiming to showcase new successes in achieving the ambitious goals of the economic agenda to be among the top three economic cities globally by 2033. The flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability of Dubai’s economic model enhance its global attractiveness for investment opportunities.

Sheikh Maktoum stated, “The new project will create new economic opportunities and a better investment environment in this crucial food sector, supporting Dubai’s D33 economic vision.”

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, noted that Dubai is a global model for generating investment opportunities and connecting regional and global markets across various sectors of trade.

He highlighted that establishing the world’s largest foodstuffs, fruits and vegetables market will reinforce strong foundations of trade in this sphere across regional and global markets, particularly through novel logistical and financial solutions bound to be offered by the market.

Bin Sulayem added, “Due to its strategic location, Dubai has become a global market for food trade, especially fruits and vegetables. This sector is witnessing increasing growth in both local markets and exports, indicating immense opportunities that can be leveraged through strategic projects that Dubai continues to develop. Establishing and expanding the Foodstuffs, Fruits and Vegetables Market and launching its pioneering solutions will all act as a strong driver to maximise the benefits of this sector’s growth in achieving Dubai’s economic goals.”

Dawood Al Hajri stated that the agreement to establish and manage the Foodstuffs, Fruit and Vegetable Market reflects Dubai’s constant efforts to enhance its competitiveness and its attractiveness as a place to invest, live, and work in.

He added that the agreement is part of Dubai’s vision to develop markets, improve the quality of life for the community, and establish the emirate as an international trade hub by offering innovative solutions to boost investment opportunities and unlock new business horizons.

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