Bharat Mart, a massive trading hub dedicated to Indian products, is set to open its doors by the end of 2026. Located in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), the facility will span over 2.7 million square feet, providing retail, showrooms, and warehouse space. The initial phase will cover 1.3 million square feet, marking the first step in what promises to be a transformative development for global trade.
The announcement comes after Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s recent visit to India, aimed at further strengthening the UAE-India relationship. Bharat Mart is poised to redefine how Indian goods reach global markets, including Africa, the Middle East, and Eurasia.
A New Hub for Indian MSMEs
Bharat Mart will cater to both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) markets, positioning itself as a key trading hub for Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It is designed to facilitate smoother trade between Indian businesses and international markets, providing them with better access and visibility.
DP World’s Group Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, shared that construction is already underway. “Bharat Mart is a showcase for Indian products to global consumers, with a focus on fulfilling the demands of buyers from the GCC, Africa, and beyond,” he said.
World-Class Infrastructure and Connectivity
The strategic location of Bharat Mart within the Jebel Ali Free Zone offers unparalleled connectivity to global markets. Located just 11 km from Jebel Ali Port and 15 km from Al Maktoum International Airport, the facility will be connected to Etihad Rail, making it an ideal logistics hub. Through Jebel Ali’s extensive network, Bharat Mart exporters will gain access to 150 maritime destinations and over 300 cities worldwide, enhancing their global reach and efficiency.
Supporting Women-Led Businesses
In addition to providing space for traditional businesses, Bharat Mart will also feature a dedicated area for women-led enterprises, highlighting its commitment to inclusive growth and opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs.
A Transformative Opportunity for Indian Businesses
The project has already garnered attention from key figures such as India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, who called Bharat Mart a “transformative project” for Indian businesses. With over 2,300 Indian companies already operating in JAFZA, Bharat Mart will provide even greater access to the global marketplace, particularly for MSMEs looking to expand their footprint.
Sheikh Hamdan also praised Dubai’s infrastructure and its strategic role in India’s global trade expansion, emphasizing the UAE’s continued role as a key partner for India in achieving new trade milestones.
Key Features of Bharat Mart:
- 2.7 million square feet of total space
- 1,500 showrooms
- 700,000 square feet of modern warehousing
- Light industrial units and office spaces
- Special focus on women-led businesses
- Access to a multimodal logistics network
As Bharat Mart prepares to launch its first phase, it is expected to become a major trade and export hub, facilitating economic growth and fostering stronger UAE-India relations.