Spring Valley to Set Up Agro Hub at Jafza, Strengthening Regional Food Security

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office 

Spring Valley, a local company that supplies agricultural products, is investing AED 184 million to build a new distribution centre in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). This hub will help strengthen food security in the region.

The new facility will cover more than 106,000 square feet and will have advanced storage and processing systems. It will include operations like packaging, roasting, and grinding of food products.

The first phase of the project is set to be completed in two years. Once fully operational, the hub is expected to process more than 65,000 metric tonnes of essential food items such as pulses, spices, and nuts. This will generate an estimated AED 440 million in annual revenue.

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Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer of Parks & Zones at DP World GCC, welcomed Spring Valley to Jafza. He highlighted that 80% of the region’s food is imported and with the global population growing by another two billion people by 2050, food security is more important than ever. Dubai plays a key role in the UAE’s food trade, handling 75% of the country’s food and beverage imports. Jafza’s food and beverage terminal, strong logistics network, and business-friendly environment continue to support innovation. DP World remains committed to investing in solutions to secure the future of food supply.

The global market for agricultural products is expected to grow from $220 billion in 2024 to $277 billion by 2028. This increase is driven by a higher demand for healthy diets and a growing population.

Toms Mathew, Executive Director of Spring Valley Food Industries, said the new Jafza hub will strengthen the company’s role in ensuring food security in the region. He added that being close to a world-class port will improve logistics and help position the UAE as a key hub for essential food supplies.

The facility will run on 100% sustainable and carbon-neutral processing. It will also have a solar power plant, supporting Dubai’s renewable energy goals. Additionally, it will follow the highest international food safety standards, including HACCP and BRCGS certifications.

Jafza continues to play a big role in the UAE’s food trade. The number of food and beverage companies operating within Jafza has grown by 14% in the past year, reaching over 770 businesses. In 2023, its food and beverage sector recorded trade worth AED 23.2 billion, making up 26% of Dubai’s total food and beverage trade value.