DP World has unveiled the Dubai Food District, a large-scale expansion and rebranding of the Al Aweer Central Fruit and Vegetable Market, positioning Dubai to become one of the world’s most advanced hubs for food trade and distribution.
Announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in July 2024, the project significantly broadens the scope of the existing market. Beyond fruits and vegetables, the new district will cater to dairy, gourmet foods, staples, and speciality products, reinforcing Dubai’s role as an integrated gateway for global food commerce.
The development will be rolled out in phases, with construction of the first phase scheduled to begin in 2027. Once complete, the Dubai Food District will more than double the current market’s footprint, spanning 29 million square feet. The expansion aims to strengthen food supply chains, increase trade capacity, and support regional food security.
Designed as a fully connected ecosystem, the district will combine trade, storage, processing, and distribution in one location. Facilities will include cold storage, temperature-controlled warehouses, processing units, digital back-office services, cash-and-carry options, and a gourmet food hall serving both businesses and consumers.
Al Aweer Market, which opened in 2004, currently supports more than 2,500 traders supplying fresh produce across the UAE and the wider region. The expansion builds on this foundation while improving efficiency, speed to market, and supply chain resilience.
DP World said the district will leverage its global logistics network to connect traders to more than 20 international markets. The Dubai Food District will be showcased at Gulfood 2026, highlighting its role in shaping the future of food trade.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
