Latest news with #Jafza


Al Bawaba
7 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Top UAE Companies Line Up for Opportunities in New Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone
A group of leading UAE-based companies have signed Letters of Intent to explore investment opportunities in the newly announced Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone, a major industrial and logistics hub being developed at the Oman-UAE companies, many of which are based in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), represent a diverse range of sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, steel fabrication and companies include:• Al Bayader: a leading manufacturer and distributor of sustainable food packaging • Apparel Group: a retail operator managing over 80 fashion and lifestyle brands• Camtech Manufacturing: a manufacturer of high-performance industrial valves• Conares: one of the region's largest private steel manufacturers• Indu Kishore Logistic: a specialist in freight forwarding and multimodal logistics• Kimoha Entrepreneurs: a provider of labeling, packaging, and RFID solutions• NAFFCO: a global leader in fire safety and life protection solutions• New East: a leading distributor of automotive spare parts• Oriental General Trading: a diversified trading and distribution company• Palmon Group: a developer and operator of industrial and logistics facilities• Technical Resources: production and supply of high-tech generators, industrial pumps, and components linked to Parker oil and gas products• Spinneys: diversified food manufacturer and distributorWhile the Letters of Intent are non-binding, they reflect strong private sector interest in leveraging the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone as a platform for regional expansion and cross-border Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World, said: 'The early interest shown by leading companies in the UAE reflects the strong potential of the Al Rawdah Economic Zone to transform trade and logistics between our two nations. Our vision is to create an integrated ecosystem that will open fresh opportunities for businesses and contribute to the long-term prosperity of the UAE and Oman.'Strategically located in Oman's Al Buraimi Governorate, Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone will provide cross-border connectivity to key regional trade corridors, including Jebel Ali Port. Designed to support a wide range of industrial, processing and commercial activities, the zone will initially be focused on opportunities in automotive-related manufacturing, injection molding, textiles and apparel, steel fabrication, logistics and strong backing from both the UAE and Omani governments, the Al Rawdah zone is set to become a strategic gateway for industrial growth and regional economic integration. The zone is being developed by Mahadha Development Company, an Emirati-Omani joint venture in which DP World is the majority partner. Phase 1 of the project will cover 14 square kilometres, with expansion plans to reach 25 square kilometres in Phase 2.


Arabian Business
07-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Jafza at 40: How massive Dubai free zone went from 19 companies to over 11,000 to become trade powerhouse
Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) in Dubai is celebrating its 40 th anniversary as it has moved from 19 companies to become a powerhouse with more than 11,000 customers. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, highlighted the role of the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) as a vital pillar in Dubai's development journey and a pioneering model that had reinforced the emirate's position as a global hub for trade and logistics over four decades. Shaikh Hamdan said: 'We take pride in what DP World has achieved through Jafza – not only in supporting economic diversification and expanding the investment base, but also in its active contribution to building a resilient economic system that keeps pace with global challenges and fosters the growth of supply chains and trade by enabling global partnerships. Jafza free zone in Dubai 'We look forward to an even greater role for Jafza in driving Dubai's comprehensive economic growth and supporting global trade through a unique ecosystem that combines innovation, integrated services, and multimodal connectivity – by land, sea, and air.' Sheikh Hamdan's statement came as Jafza, the flagship free zone of DP World, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year – marking four decades of partnership in promoting trade, supporting global business expansion, and reinforcing economic diversification in Dubai. Over the years, Jafza has come to be recognised as a global benchmark in the development of free zones and for good reason. Jafza's model is being replicated globally as DP World helps countries secure resilient trade infrastructure in an increasingly volatile environment. On 6 May 1980, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum issued the first law to establish a free zone in Jebel Ali, giving shape to a vision that would see the development of one of the most ambitious economic projects in the region. By 1985, Jafza was officially established by royal decree under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, becoming the Middle East's first specially designated free zone. Commemorating the milestone, Jafza has unveiled a special logo and is organising community activities, industry events and initiatives to engage customers and business partners throughout the year. Over the past two decades, Jafza has attracted over AED110bn ($30bn) in total investment and today contributes 36 per cent of Dubai's GDP in combination with the integrated Jebel Ali ecosystem. It plays a central role in national strategies including the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, Operation 300bn, and Make it in the Emirates. From just 19 founding companies in 1985, Jafza has grown to support more than 11,000 businesses from 157 countries, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. In 2024, it facilitated AED713bn ($194bn) in non-oil trade, representing a 15 per cent year-on-year increase from 2023. The free zone also accounted for 74 per cent of the emirate's FDI in the manufacturing, trade, and transport sectors in 2023. Jafza's developed land bank today spans more than 539 million sq ft, offering multimodal connectivity across sea, air, and land. Combined with Jebel Ali Port, which recorded its second highest performance in a decade last year, the ecosystem forms one of the most advanced logistics hubs globally. Jafza supports the employment of more than 160,000 people within the free zone, across a wide range of industries, from logistics and automotive to food and advanced manufacturing, making it one of the largest employment hubs in the country. In 2023, Jafza and Jebel Ali Port created more than one million direct and indirect jobs, representing 27 per cent of Dubai's total employment, including nearly 40,000 jobs for UAE nationals. Forty years ago, a remarkable chapter in Dubai's growth story began with the launch of the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) in 1985. From just 19 companies at its inception, JAFZA has grown into a global hub, now home to over 11,000 businesses from 157 countries. As part of DP World,… — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) May 5, 2025 Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DP World, said: 'Jafza's 40th anniversary is a celebration of our customers and the visionary leadership which has made Dubai a beacon for international trade. 'Through four decades of infrastructure investment and innovation, Jafza has become a crucial engine of growth that now sits at the heart of Dubai's economy. 'We look forward with confidence to the next phase of growth, as Jafza continues to expand and provide the blueprint for success for other DP World economic hubs around the world.' Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC, added: 'Our success over the past 40 years has always been rooted in our commitment to our customers. In the past year alone, we have seen a 17 per cent increase in new companies operating out of Jafza, and Jebel Ali Port ranks among the top 10 ports worldwide. 'Businesses today face complex challenges in international trade, and our diversified industrial base, multimodal connectivity, and global network and expertise provides them with a competitive edge. As we mark this milestone, we thank our customers and growing community for choosing Jebel Ali.' Jafza's status as a global leader in free zone development was reaffirmed in 2024 when it was named the top global free zone by Financial Times' fDi Intelligence, as well as the top zone in the industrial and sustainability categories. Jafza's pioneering model has been replicated by DP World across 11 economic zones globally, including the Dominicana Economic Zone in the Dominican Republic, Berbera Economic Zone in Somaliland, London Gateway in the UK, and the Chennai Free Trade Zone in India. Globally, DP World has more than 8,900 hectares of operational free zones, with another 670 currently under development that are driving foreign investment, job creation, and industrial development across Asia, Middle East and Africa. Jafza aims to achieve carbon-neutrality by 2040 and net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy. Through International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECS) sourced from the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, the free zone is now fully powered by renewable energy. It is also home to the largest distributed solar rooftop project in the Middle East, which has seen 158,000 panels installed across Jafza on the rooftops of warehouses, car park canopies and other buildings. The free zone has also received the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) verification – the gold standard for sustainability target setting. Additionally, by 2026, Jafza aims to divert over 80 per cent of waste from landfills to promote the UAE's transition to a circular economy. As Jafza embarks on its fifth decade, it continues to champion innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions, setting benchmarks for free zones worldwide. Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) timeline 1972: DP World's story begins as a local port operator at Port Rashid — Dubai's first commercial port 1975: UAE's first aluminium producer, DUBAL, is established — laying the foundation for heavy industry 1979: Jebel Ali Port officially opens, marking a new era for trade and infrastructure in the region 1980: The late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum issues the law to establish a customs-free trade zone in Jebel Ali on May 6, 1980 1981: Dubai Petroleum begins operations in Jebel Ali, catalysing industrial activity 1985: Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is officially inaugurated with 19 founding companies 1986: The first overseas delegation from Jafza goes to Japan and a 50-year tax exemption is introduced to attract investors 1987: Nears first 50 customers 1992: SONY establishes the world's largest electronics hub in Jafza 1993: Jafza and Dubai Customs integrate to streamline cargo processing 1996: Pioneers digital trade in the region through EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) 1999: DP World expands globally, completing its first overseas project in Jeddah, and launches India's first terminal public-private partnership in Nhava Sheva 2002: Reaches 1,000 customers 2003: Integration with Dubai Trade creates a seamless, one-stop platform for customers 2004: Nears 2,000 customers 2005: Unveils a bold master plan to double its footprint and capabilities 2007: Reaches 3,000 customers 2008: Opens cutting-edge warehouses for global businesses 2010: Launches sea and air corridor, reducing cargo transfer times 2011: Reaches 4,000 customers 2012: Jebel Ali Port handles over 10 million TEUs — a regional first 2013: Boosts capacity with 100,000 sqm of smart warehouses and launches its first mobile app for customers 2014: London Gateway Logistics Park (UK) opens next to DP World's port, hosting tenants like UPS and DHL. Reaches 5,000 customers 2015: Reaches 7,000 clients from over 100 countries. DP World opens Caucedo Logistics Centre in the Dominican Republic, enabling nearshoring to the US 2016: Jebel Ali's integrated port and free zone model replicated in Sokhna, Egypt. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem appointed Group Chairman and CEO of DP World. Reaches 6,000 customers 2017: Launch of the region's largest rooftop solar power initiative at Jafza 2018: Kigali Logistics Platform begins operations in Rwanda – the first inland economic zone in Africa 2019: Reaches 7,000 customers 2020: The Covid-19 pandemic begins, causing global health crises, economic disruptions and supply chain turmoil. China-UAE Traders Market launched at Jafza in partnership with China Commodity City Group 2021: Facilitates AED455bn ($124bn) in trade. Posorja Gateway Economic Zone launches in Ecuador, enhancing trade in Latin America. Reaches 8,000 customers 2022: Yiwu Market is launched in Jafza to simplify business for Chinese traders, and three economic zones are launched in India (Mumbai, Cochin, Chennai). DP World opens South Carolina Gateway in the US as a strategic East Coast logistics hub. DP World sells minority stakes in flagship UAE assets to Canada's CDPQ and Saudi Arabia's Hassana, raising $7.4bn. Reaches 9,000 customers 2023: Launch of Jafza Logistics Park to meet demand for Grade-A warehousing. Berbera Economic Zone opens in Somaliland – a trade gateway for the Horn of Africa – modelled on Jafza 2024: Red Sea shipping is disrupted. Jafza is named the world's No. 1 Free Zone by fDi Intelligence and reaches 10,000 customers


Gulf Business
07-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Abdulla bin Damithan on how DP World's Jafza has become a global trade powerhouse
Image: Supplied In 1985, a modest cluster of 19 companies set up shop near Jebel Ali Port — part of a bold new vision to turn Dubai into a global logistics and trade hub. Today, that vision is embodied by the Jebel Ali Free Zone ( Home to over 10,000 businesses, Jafza is now a vital pillar of Dubai's non-oil economy and a cornerstone of DP World's integrated trade model. Jafza's status as a global leader in free zone development was reaffirmed in 2024 when it was named the top global free zone by Financial Times ' fDi Intelligence, as well as the top zone in the industrial and sustainability categories. Jafza is also committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 and net-zero emissions by 2050, aligning with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy. As part of this commitment, the free zone is now fully powered by renewable energy through International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs) sourced from the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. Jafza is also home to the Middle East's largest distributed solar rooftop project, with 158,000 panels installed across various buildings, including warehouses and car park canopies. In recognition of its sustainability efforts, Jafza has received the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) verification, considered the gold standard for setting sustainability targets. By 2026, Jafza aims to divert over 80 per cent of its waste from landfills, further supporting the UAE's transition to a circular economy. In this conversation with Gulf Business, Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and MD of DP World GCC, shares how the free zone has evolved to stay ahead of global trade shifts, embraced digital transformation, supported national talent, and become a blueprint for future-ready free zones worldwide. Here are excerpts of the conversation Jafza is celebrating a significant milestone — 40 years of operations. From its inception as a regional trade zone to becoming a global model, what stands out to you about this journey? Jafza's journey began in 1985, following a decree in 1980 by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, At that time, we had Jebel Ali Port and needed to establish a cargo base. We started with just 19 companies. Over the years, we've navigated various economic phases, especially in this dynamic region. Today, we're proud to host over 10,000 companies, including more than 100 Fortune 500 firms. Jafza now serves not just Dubai or the UAE, but the broader region, and has become a model for other economic zones globally. How has Jafza utilised Dubai's growing prominence and infrastructure to attract investment and build a competitive edge? Over the past 40 years, we've accumulated extensive experience and adapted continuously to global shifts. Our strength lies in integration: Jebel Ali Port, Jafza free zone, and, in the future, Al Maktoum International Airport — all working in tandem. This kind of connectivity — by sea, land, and air — is unparalleled globally. We're also future-ready: the Etihad Rail project will extend into Jafza, further enhancing connectivity. Our global network enables us to manage the entire supply chain — from factory floor to customer door. We don't just offer land — we offer partnerships, understanding our clients' businesses, and providing tailored solutions. This approach helps our clients create value and access new markets. Jafza is seen as a benchmark for other economic zones. What best practices or features do others aim to emulate? We facilitate over Dhs550bn worth of trade annually and support over 10,000 businesses. Our success is rooted in continuous innovation — be it digital transformation, AI adoption, or automation. Today, customers can complete all services online without visiting an office, thanks to platforms like Dubai Trade. Our port is now fully automated, and most of our operations are digitised. These efforts reduce costs, save time, and simplify business, making us a model for modern, tech-driven free zones. How does Jafza contribute to Dubai's D33 vision, particularly in terms of FDI and non-oil trade diversification? What we did 40 years ago won't carry us into the next 40. We're now focused on attracting advanced manufacturing firms, including SMEs. Modern manufacturing demands advanced infrastructure, which we are investing in — both our own and tailor-built facilities for clients. Companies like Eaton and A-Heat are great examples —they represent the high-tech, future-oriented industries we aim to attract. Continuous investment in capabilities ensures we stay aligned with Dubai's ambitions and the D33 strategy. Jafza is known as a great place to work, with many long-serving employees. How are you encouraging local talent to join the company? We've always prioritised developing Emirati talent. Programmes like Tomoh allow fresh graduates to gain experience by working in different companies within Jafza, helping them build their careers. Other initiatives like Ta'heel and Rawad offer scholarships and training, preparing nationals not just for roles in Dubai but across our global portfolio. Looking ahead, where do you see Jafza in the next decade? Our journey over the past 40 years has been successful, thanks to support from the government, our team, and a clear vision. Moving forward, we aim to take Jafza to the world by expanding our global footprint. Jafza's successful model has already been replicated by DP World across 11 economic zones worldwide — including the Dominicana Economic Zone in the Dominican Republic, Berbera Economic Zone in Somaliland, London Gateway in the UK, and the Chennai Free Trade Zone in India. With more than 8,900 hectares of operational free zones and another 670 under development, these zones are unlocking new markets for our customers, enabling them to grow beyond Dubai while driving foreign investment, job creation, and industrial development across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. With the current geopolitical tensions and global challenges, how is Jafza adapting to ensure continued growth? Challenges have always been part of our journey — from regional conflicts to global economic downturns. We focus on building resilient infrastructure and expanding our capabilities. Dubai's strategy of signing comprehensive economic partnership agreements (CEPAs) with countries like India has boosted trade significantly. Such agreements open new opportunities for our customers and strengthen our position in global trade. Can you elaborate on initiatives like E-Market and Bharat Mart and their significance? We've launched E-Market to facilitate the import of Chinese products to Dubai for re-export. Additionally, Bharat Mart, announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai , is a 2.7 million square foot facility designed to bring Indian products to Jebel Ali for global distribution. We're also planning similar initiatives with countries like Turkey, Pakistan, and Indonesia, further enhancing Dubai's role as a global trade hub. As a leader, what values have guided you in steering Jafza to its current success? Our foundation was laid by the visionary leadership of Sheikh Rashid. We've built upon that vision, differentiating Dubai and Jafza from others. Teamwork, clear communication, and a shared vision have been crucial. Our commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and sustainability ensures we remain at the forefront of global trade and logistics.


Zawya
06-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Jafza hailed as vital pillar of Dubai's economy
Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) has been hailed a vital pillar in Dubai's development journey and a pioneering model that had reinforced the emirate's position as a global hub for trade and logistics over four decades. 'We take pride in what DP World has achieved through Jafza – not only in supporting economic diversification and expanding the investment base, but also in its active contribution to building a resilient economic system that keeps pace with global challenges and fosters the growth of supply chains and trade by enabling global partnerships. We look forward to an even greater role for Jafza in driving Dubai's comprehensive economic growth and supporting global trade through a unique ecosystem that combines innovation, integrated services, and multimodal connectivity – by land, sea, and air,' His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The statement came as Jafza, the flagship free zone of DP World, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year – marking four decades of partnership in promoting trade, supporting global business expansion, and reinforcing economic diversification in Dubai. Over the years, Jafza has come to be recognised as a global benchmark in the development of free zones and for good reason. Today, Jafza's model is being replicated globally as DP World helps countries secure resilient trade infrastructure in an increasingly volatile environment. On May 6, 1980, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum issued the first law to establish a free zone in Jebel Ali, giving shape to a vision that would see the development of one of the most ambitious economic projects in the region. By 1985, Jafza was officially established by royal decree under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, becoming the Middle East's first specially designated free zone. Commemorating the milestone, Jafza has unveiled a special logo and is organising community activities, industry events and initiatives to engage customers and business partners throughout the year. Partner to the UAE economy Over the last two decades, Jafza has attracted over AED110 billion ($29.95 billion) in total investment and today contributes 36% of Dubai's GDP in combination with the integrated Jebel Ali ecosystem. It plays a central role in national strategies including the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, Operation 300bn, and Make it in the Emirates. From just 19 founding companies in 1985, Jafza has grown to support over 11,000 businesses from 157 countries, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. In 2024, it facilitated AED713 billion in non-oil trade, representing a 15% year-on-year increase from 2023. The free zone also accounted for 74% of the emirate's FDI in the manufacturing, trade, and transport sectors in 2023. Jafza's developed land bank today spans more than 539 million sq ft, offering multimodal connectivity across sea, air, and land. Combined with Jebel Ali Port, which recorded its second highest performance in a decade last year, the ecosystem forms one of the most advanced logistics hubs globally. A hub for jobs, talent, and Emiratisation Jafza supports the employment of over 160,000 people within the free zone, across a wide range of industries, from logistics and automotive to food and advanced manufacturing, making it one of the largest employment hubs in the country. In 2023, Jafza and Jebel Ali Port created over one million direct and indirect jobs, representing 27% of Dubai's total employment, including nearly 40,000 jobs for UAE nationals. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DP World, said: 'Jafza's 40th anniversary is a celebration of our customers and the visionary leadership which has made Dubai a beacon for international trade. Through four decades of infrastructure investment and innovation, Jafza has become a crucial engine of growth that now sits at the heart of Dubai's economy. We look forward with confidence to the next phase of growth, as Jafza continues to expand and provide the blueprint for success for other DP World economic hubs around the world.' Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC, added: 'Our success over the past 40 years has always been rooted in our commitment to our customers. In the past year alone, we have seen a 17% increase in new companies operating out of Jafza, and Jebel Ali Port ranks among the top 10 ports worldwide. Businesses today face complex challenges in international trade, and our diversified industrial base, multimodal connectivity, and global network and expertise provides them with a competitive edge. As we mark this milestone, we thank our customers and growing community for choosing Jebel Ali.' A blueprint for global trade Jafza's status as a global leader in free zone development was reaffirmed in 2024 when it was named the top global free zone by Financial Times' fDi Intelligence, as well as the top zone in the industrial and sustainability categories. Jafza's pioneering model has been replicated by DP World across 11 economic zones globally, including the Dominicana Economic Zone in the Dominican Republic, Berbera Economic Zone in Somaliland, London Gateway in the UK, and the Chennai Free Trade Zone in India. Globally, DP World has more than 8,900 hectares of operational free zones, with another 670 currently under development that are driving foreign investment, job creation, and industrial development across Asia, Middle East and Africa. Powering a more sustainable future Jafza aims to achieve carbon-neutrality by 2040 and net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy. Through International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECS) sourced from the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, the free zone is now fully powered by renewable energy. It is also home to the largest distributed solar rooftop project in the Middle East, which has seen 158,000 panels installed across Jafza on the rooftops of warehouses, car park canopies and other buildings. The free zone has also received the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) verification – the gold standard for sustainability target setting. Additionally, by 2026, Jafza aims to divert over 80% of waste from landfills to promote the UAE's transition to a circular economy. As Jafza embarks on its fifth decade, it continues to champion innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions, setting benchmarks for free zones worldwide. – Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (

Khaleej Times
30-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Jafza expands logistics park with Dh90 million investment to meet surging demand
Jafza is strengthening its position with a strategic Dh90 million investment in Phase 2 of its cutting-edge Logistics Park, a company statement said. Adding 360,000 square feet of Grade-A facilities, the expansion aligns with the UAE's push to grow its logistics sector to Dh200 billion annually in the next seven years and cements Dubai's role in international trade. The second phase delivers world class infrastructure, including modern offices, customisable units, temperature-controlled warehouses, loading docks, and enhanced power capacity to support diverse industries. Abdulla Al Hashmi, chief operating officer, Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, said: 'The expansion of Jafza Logistics Park reflects our commitment to helping businesses compete globally and simultaneously drive foreign investment into Dubai. Phase 1 was fully leased before completion, highlighting strong demand for quality logistics and warehousing, and Phase 2 takes this a step further - offering flexible, high-quality solutions to support growth in multiple sectors. This brings the total area of Jafza Logistics Park to over 922,000 square feet as we continue to grow our state-of-the-art infrastructure.' With the Middle East and Africa's freight and logistics market set to hit $235.8 billion by 2031, demand for advanced warehousing is accelerating, including in Dubai, where sectors like manufacturing, logistics, construction, and e-commerce are driving unprecedented growth. The newly expanded park is expected to close this gap — offering market access by leveraging Jafza's connectivity with Jebel Ali Port and providing advanced storage and handling solutions including contract logistics, freight forwarding and freight management for everything from tech and automotive parts to fashion and packaged food. It also provides value-added services like packaging, labelling, and quality control, with real-time inventory tracking, and enables re-exports, domestic fulfilment, and import-export consolidation. Designed with sustainability in mind, the park incorporates precast concrete and off-site construction methods to minimise environmental impact, as well as skylights to maximise natural daylight and cut energy consumption. Jafza currently hosts 10,890 companies from 150 countries, supporting over 160,000 jobs and contributing Dh620 billion in trade annually. Phase 1, completed in November 2023, spans 562,507 square feet, featuring Grade-A dry and pharma storage units, temperature-controlled warehouses, and office spaces.