
The Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is marking its 40th anniversary with record trade growth between India and the UAE, supported by strategic initiatives and infrastructure that connect Indian businesses to global markets.
In 2024 alone, DP World’s flagship free zone, saw a 40% rise in trade volume and a 17% rise in trade value from India compared to the year before. Today, more than 2,300 Indian companies operate from Jafza, employing over 15,000 people across core sectors including electronics, construction, food, chemicals, and logistics. Indian businesses represent the largest community in the free zone by trade volume.
Last year, Jafza welcomed 283 new Indian companies, marking a 15% year-on-year increase in new registrations and highlighting the strength of the India-UAE trade corridor and the growing demand for Dubai’s multimodal trade infrastructure and strategic connectivity.
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO, DP World, said: “India has been instrumental to Jafza’s story over the past four decades. Our collaboration has gone beyond trade to create a lasting partnership based on trust, opportunity, and mutual progress. India and the UAE aim to reach $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030, and Jebel Ali’s ecosystem will be a key driver in achieving this milestone. As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting India’s global ambitions through our network of smart logistics solutions.”