DP World has broken ground on a major new trade hub in Dubai — the Bharat Mart — aimed at boosting global market access for Indian businesses.
The virtual model of the Bharat Mart project was unveiled in a high-profile ceremony attended by dignitaries, including His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. This marks a significant step in fortifying trade relations between the UAE and India.
A Strategic Trade Hub
Set to open by the end of 2026, Bharat Mart is designed to be a dynamic marketplace catering to both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) needs. Spanning an impressive 2.7 million square feet in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), this hub aims to serve as a vital connective tissue for trade between the two nations.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The Mart will feature 1,500 showrooms equipped with state-of-the-art warehousing facilities. A key highlight is its focus on supporting small businesses, with particular emphasis on initiatives for women-led enterprises from India. This strategic approach signals a broader commitment to inclusivity and growth within the Indian entrepreneurial landscape.
Boosting Trade Targets
According to DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the establishment of Bharat Mart is a critical element in achieving the ambitious target of $100 billion in non-oil trade between India and the UAE by 2030. This vision underlies the economic collaboration between the two countries and aims to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem.
Prime Location for Connectivity
Bharat Mart is strategically located just 11 km from Jebel Ali Port and 15 km from Al Maktoum International Airport. Its convenient access to the Etihad Rail system enhances its appeal, ensuring seamless connectivity that links Indian exporters to more than 150 maritime destinations and around 300 cities globally. This accessibility is pivotal in streamlining logistics and trade operations.
JAFZA: A Gateway for Indian Trade
The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) has already established itself as a key entry point for Indian businesses, currently hosting over 2,300 Indian companies. The expansion of Bharat Mart within this industrial hub further cements JAFZA’s role as a cornerstone of Indian trade, providing both infrastructure and opportunities for growth in the region.
In the presence of Hamdan bin Mohammed and Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, DP World commences construction of Bharat Mart strategic trading hub in Dubai, offering new horizons for Indian businesses. Set to open by the end of 2026 inside JAFZA, the…
pic.twitter.com/6VxW6iRi5D— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice)
April 10, 2025
