Dubai, May 6 – The Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) in the UAE has reported a remarkable growth in trade, with a 40% rise in volume and a 17% increase in trade value from India in 2024, as detailed in a recent announcement.
Over 2,300 Indian enterprises function within DP World’s principal free zone, providing employment for more than 15,000 individuals across various key sectors, including electronics, construction, food, chemicals, and logistics, according to DP World.
In the previous year, there were 283 newly registered Indian businesses in Jafza, demonstrating a 15% year-over-year growth in registrations.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO of DP World, emphasized India’s significant role in the success of Jafza over the last 40 years.
He stated, “Our partnership has expanded beyond mere trade, fostering a relationship built on trust, opportunity, and mutual advancement. Both India and the UAE aspire to achieve USD 100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030, with the Jebel Ali ecosystem playing a critical role in reaching that goal.”
Speaking on future prospects, bin Sulayem affirmed Jafza’s dedication to facilitating India’s worldwide ambitions through its advanced logistics services.
A notable upcoming project is Bharat Mart, which is expected to launch in 2026. Situated within the Jebel Ali ecosystem, the facility will cover 2.7 million square feet, commencing with an initial phase of 1.3 million square feet.
Bharat Mart aims to serve as a central hub for Indian exporters, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing them with resources for retail, warehousing, and logistics, thereby simplifying their access to global markets, especially businesses in Africa and the GCC that source Indian products through Dubai.
In addition, DP World and the Government of India have introduced the Bharat Africa Setu, a trade corridor intended to enhance India-Africa trade volumes.
This initiative will establish connections between India and Africa via sea and air routes, involving ports, economic zones, and logistics hubs facilitated by DP World in both regions, thereby granting Indian exporters access to 53 nations across Africa.
Founded in 1985, Jafza has drawn in over USD 30 billion in foreign investments in the last two decades and now hosts nearly 11,000 businesses from 157 different countries.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Jafza has achieved unprecedented trade volumes of USD 190 billion over the past year, reflecting a 15% increase compared to the previous year.
DP World Reports 40% Increase in Trade Volume from India for UAE’s Jafza Free Zone
