DP World in deal to set up world’s largest car market

DP World, a key provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions, has been signed up by Dubai Municipality to develop the largest and most advanced car market globally in a move aimed at solidifying Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most prominent and rapidly growing cities in the automotive trade sector.

DP World has been entrusted with the construction and management of the ‘Dubai Car Market’, reported Wam. 

As per the deal, the group will leverage its extensive logistical expertise and global network, which includes over 430 business units in 86 countries, to ensure the market’s success.

“Today, we have mandated DP World to develop the ‘Dubai Car Market’, expanding the current market eightfold to create a 20 million sq. ft. facility that will be the largest and most advanced car market globally,” said Dubai Ruler, Prime Minister, and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the launch ceremony. “The ‘Dubai Car Market’ will be connected with 77 ports managed by DP World around the globe, enhancing its capacity and doubling its current sales of AED 6.8 billion,” he stated. 

“The new market will become a global hub that offers commercial services, and logistics and financing solutions for this vital sector. It will also be a premier destination for major conferences and specialised events for car enthusiasts. Dubai will continue to develop new development projects as part of its vision to be one of the largest economic and commercial centres in the world,” he added.

The strategic agreement was signed by Dubai Municipality Director-General Dawood Al Hajri and DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem in the presence of Dubai First Deputy Ruler, Deputy Prime Minister, and Finance Minister Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

A strategic project that contributes to realising Dubai’s future vision, the ‘Dubai Car Market’ will offer integrated services, including buying, selling, registration, banking, and logistics. The market will have the capacity to host global events, making it a preferred destination for car enthusiasts and investors.

Sheikh Mohammed said: “Through strategic initiatives like the ‘Dubai Car Market’, we aim to provide an integrated investment environment that supports sustainable economic growth. This initiative will accelerate the achievement of the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to double the size of the Emirates’ economy and transform it into one of the world’s top three urban economies by 2033.”

Al Hajri said: “Signing the partnership agreement with DP World represents a major step towards realising Dubai’s vision for developing the largest and most advanced car market in the world. We aim to provide the best services that meet the needs of investors and traders, enhancing Dubai’s position as a premier global investment destination in the automotive sector.”

“This project aims to enhance infrastructure and develop integrated services that contribute to supporting the local economy and achieving sustainable growth. Establishing the ‘Dubai Car Market’ will attract foreign investments and strengthen Dubai’s position as a global innovation and trade centre,” he stated. 

Bin Sulayem said: “We are proud to collaborate with Dubai Municipality on this ambitious project. We aim to leverage our services and expertise in managing economic zones to establish Dubai as a leading destination in the automotive trade sector. We will continue our commitment to providing the best logistical and technological solutions to support this project.”

“We are committed to providing services and infrastructure that keep pace with global developments and meet investors’ expectations. This project is vital to enhancing the local economy and achieving sustainable growth. We will provide all resources to ensure its success,” he added.

The project aims to expand the market area from 2.8 million sq. ft. to 20 million sq. ft., making it eight times its current size. The market will be a comprehensive global centre offering advanced and innovative automotive services, said the Wam report.

Current sales and operations, valued at AED 6.8 billion, are expected to double with significant infrastructure and service expansions. The new market will offer innovative Government and banking services and will be connected to global markets through DP World’s network, enhancing access and trade, it added.