DP World has unveiled the Dubai Food District, a major expansion and transformation of the existing Al Aweer Central Fruit and Vegetable Market, positioning it as one of the world’s most advanced and comprehensive food trade centres. The new development will cater not only to fruits and vegetables but also to dairy, gourmet foods, staples, and speciality products, strengthening Dubai’s role as a central gateway for global food trade.
Originally announced in July 2024 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Food District will be developed in phases, with phase one set to begin in 2027. The expansion will more than double the size of the current market, creating a 29 million square-foot hub designed to enhance trade capacity, improve supply chain efficiency, and support regional food security.
The district will integrate trading, storage, processing, and distribution in a single ecosystem. Facilities will include temperature-controlled warehouses, cold storage, primary and secondary food processing units, digital back-office solutions, cash-and-carry services, and a gourmet food hall, catering to both businesses and consumers.
Since opening in 2004, the Al Aweer Market has been a cornerstone of the UAE’s food supply, supporting over 2,500 traders distributing fresh produce locally and regionally. The Dubai Food District will preserve this legacy while expanding its scale and capabilities, streamlining operations, reducing supply chain risks, and accelerating the delivery of products to market.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said, “The Dubai Food District will elevate Dubai’s food trade leadership by combining world-class infrastructure, global connectivity, and state-of-the-art logistics. It allows producers, traders, and farmers to reach new markets more efficiently and sustainably.”
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director of DP World GCC, added, “As global food demand rises, Dubai Food District is a strategic investment in resilient, trade-led growth. It provides a platform for innovation in the food sector while supporting the UAE’s industrial strategy and long-term economic impact.”
Strategically located with multimodal connectivity, the district links producers and traders to over 20 international markets through DP World’s global logistics network, offering an agile, secure, and cost-effective supply chain solution for businesses of all sizes.
The Dubai Food District will be officially showcased at Gulfood 2026, highlighting its role as a future-ready hub for the international food industry.
