Latest news with #AbdullaAlHashmi
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
From Ports to Power Moves: How Dubai is Reinventing Trade Infrastructure
From Ports to Power Moves (ET Spotlight) 27:16 Min | June 25, 2025, 2:06 PM IST How do you turn a logistics hub into a blueprint for the future of global trade? In this episode of Live, Work & Play in Dubai, we sit down with Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer – Parks & Zones at DP World GCC, to explore how Dubai is building the next generation of global trade infrastructure—combining clean energy, advanced logistics, and India-centric trade solutions. From the Middle East's largest rooftop solar programme and DEWA-powered zones to a 1.2 million vehicle auto market a ...Read More nd vertical warehousing models, Hashmi shares how JAFZA is evolving from a re-export hub to a green, smart, and efficient base for manufacturers and exporters. He also dives into Bharat Mart's role in simplifying access to both free zone and mainland markets for Indian businesses, and how CEPA-fuelled trade is already outperforming targets. This episode unpacks how infrastructure, policy, and innovation are converging to reshape the future of trade. ...Read Less
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
From ports to policies: How Dubai is rewiring the future of trade
In the rapidly transforming landscape of global trade and commerce, Dubai has positioned itself as a world-class logistics and supply chain hub. According to Abdulla Al Hashmi, CEO of Parks and Zones at DP World GCC, 'Dubai is the best place to launch and test a product. Its diverse base of over 200 nationalities provides a large, dynamic sample pool to test innovations, and its cutting-edge infrastructure allows businesses to scale globally.' Rishab Kapoor, Founder of Ray Holding, a comprehensive next-gen aviation company, echoes this, noting, 'Dubai's ecosystem offers more than just a strategic location. Its infrastructure, policy framework, and geopolitical positioning have made it a magnet for global enterprises. At the core of this ecosystem lies the triad of sea, air, and land infrastructure, connecting seamlessly to form the Dubai Logistics Corridor. Hashmi highlights this potential further: 'With Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum International Airport, and a growing network of roads, bonded customs corridors, and industrial zones, Dubai offers direct access to over 300 cities worldwide, 65% of global gross domestic product (GDP) and 3.5 billion consumers.' A world-class logistics hub Dubai's prowess is also backed by global metrics. According to the 2023 World Bank Logistics Performance Index, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranks seventh globally with a score of 4.0, reaffirming its position as a world-class logistics hub—driven by Dubai's streamlined processes, high service quality, and efficient customs operations. Three core pillars are fuelling Dubai's rise as a global logistics hub: Live Events 1. Strategic location and world-class infrastructure: Dubai's position at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa gives it a location advantage. The Jebel Ali Port, one of the world's top 10 busiest ports, Al Maktoum International Airport, and Dubai South—a next-generation aerotropolis—provide seamless integration between sea, air, and land transport. Then there are special economic zones (SEZs) and Parks, which create opportunities for ancillary businesses (warehousing, fulfilment centres), marketplaces, and commercial activities. Talking about DP World, Hashmi states that between six special economic zones, including Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), National Industries Park, Dubai Auto Market, Maritime City, and others, substantial trading and manufacturing value addition takes place. This is reflected in the numbers: In 2019, Jebel Ali clients generated a trade value of $99 billion, which increased to USD 190 billion in 2024. DP World is now the world's largest vehicle handler and supports sectors, including commodities trading and industrial manufacturing. Global companies, such as Eaton (US), A-Heat (Germany), and Global Surfaces (India), have already established precision manufacturing facilities in Dubai's free zones. 2. Policy innovation and digital transformation: The Dubai Economic Agenda is at the centre of Dubai's non-oil diversification strategy and includes a strong focus on logistics, with the Land Transport Strategy aiming to double the sector's direct contribution to AED 16.8 billion by 2030. According to Hashmi, the initiative also includes an incentive package aimed at doubling the manufacturing value added and bilateral trade over the next 10 years. A major driver of this expansion will be technological adoption, with Kapoor and Hashmi identifying automation, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and green initiatives as game changers. Hashmi notes that 'DP World is no longer just a port operator, but a multi-modal infrastructure provider,' citing advances such as AI forecasting and blockchain-based contracts. Kapoor highlights DHL's Dubai South Innovation Centre, drone delivery trials, and real-time e-commerce tracking as evidence of digital tools reshaping regional logistics. Sustainability is another cornerstone of Dubai's transformation. As per Hashmi, JAFZA has the Middle East's largest solar rooftop programme. In addition, all power needs of DP World are met from the Al Maktoum solar park. Green warehouses, solar-powered logistics facilities, and blockchain use cases that reduce paperwork and waste are becoming the new normal. These innovations are likely to attract companies looking to align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals while optimising operations. ET Spotlight 3. Geopolitical heft and expanding trade agreements: Dubai's influence extends beyond its infrastructure, bolstered by the UAE's growing geopolitical clout through trade agreements, such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which spans Asia, Europe, and Africa. Hashmi notes, 'CEPA creates more affordable trade corridors by eliminating customs duties.' Jean Shahdadpuri, CEO of Nikai Group, highlights the impact of the UAE's first-ever CEPA with India, with a 15% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and bilateral trade reaching $83.7 billion. Beyond trade deals, DP World's strategic acquisitions and partnerships—such as those in Turkey, India, the GCC, and Africa—are also creating new interdependencies and allowing companies to 'build in Dubai for the region.' Dubai South: A future-ready ecosystem According to Kapoor, 'Ray chose Dubai to be its central hub despite the varied choices, because Dubai's planned aerotropolis supercharges the company's plans. From the Al-Maktoum airport to Aviation and Logistics District, to commitments by major Aviation players for MRO and R&D services, the company can access all facilities for its luxury jets, specialised cargo operations and commercial airline. With its cargo-first design, scalable warehousing, and proximity to both sea and air gateways, Dubai South is expected to anchor the next phase of supply chain evolution in the region.' Opportunities for Indian businesses India stands to benefit significantly from Dubai's logistics boom. Saurabh Goyal, CEO of Xindus, a cross-border trade and commerce enabler, highlights a three-pronged strategy for Indian companies. With reduced tariffs and faster customs clearances, Dubai enables Indian companies to utilise it as a staging ground for reaching Africa and Europe. From pharmaceuticals to textiles, Indian goods can be shipped in bulk, stored in bonded warehouses, and redistributed as per demand. Additionally, Dubai's consumer base, combined with its role as the commercial capital of the GCC, presents a lucrative local market. With over 200 nationalities and high per capita spending, it is a testbed for consumer products, agri-tech solutions, and digital services. Hashmi highlights the government incentives and subsidies to attract Indian companies to free zones. According to him, 25% of companies in JAFZA are of Indian origin, and initiatives such as Bharat Mart are increasingly engaging in the UAE-India business and trade corridor. Bharat Mart is a first-of-its-kind wholesale and retail marketplace being developed within DP World's ecosystem. It will enable Indian businesses to leverage Dubai's world-class infrastructure to access free zones, the mainland, and regional markets through integrated storage, warehousing, transport, and customs facilitation. Expected to be operational by end-2026, Bharat Mart will offer end-to-end trade support, including distribution networks and streamlined export services for Indian companies. Another opportunity area for Indian companies is light assembly, precision manufacturing, and packaging within Dubai's free zones. Moreover, Dubai's strong financial sector can provide services such as supply chain financing, risk underwriting, and blockchain-enabled transparency. As the world grapples with supply chain disruptions, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainty, Dubai's bet on infrastructure, digital innovation, and openness seems to be paying off. With its stable governance, business-friendly policies, and tax incentives, its ports, airports and free zones are increasingly attracting commodity-specific marketplaces, agri-tech businesses, and precision manufacturing startups. This article is contributed by Shraddha Bhandari. Click this link for more on Business in Dubai. Disclaimer - This article is a part of a featured content series on Business in Dubai.
Arabian Business
25-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Indian biotech firm Ayu Life Sciences to build $9mn Dubai facility for artificial skin
Ayu Life Sciences, an India-based medical devices and cell therapy company, announced plans to establish a new AED33 million ($9 million) advanced manufacturing facility at Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). The new facility is billed as the first of its kind in the region. The 13,500 square metre facility will focus on the production of next-generation wound care solutions and surgical treatments, designed to meet the growing global demand for high-quality, sustainable healthcare products. India's Ayu expands globally Dr. Rajan Datt, Managing Director of Ayu Life Sciences, said the company is excited to announce the new facility in Jafza, marking a major milestone for it. 'We look forward to breaking ground on this new facility and extending the reach of our flagship products like Velgraft, Velvert, and VelNez to more patients in the Middle East and around the globe,' he said. Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, said Jafza's manufacturing infrastructure and strategic connectivity make it the ideal launchpad for innovators like Ayu Life Sciences. 'This facility reinforces Dubai's growing role as a global hub for the healthcare and advanced medical manufacturing sectors,' he said. The launch comes amid a surge in demand for artificial skin, with the market projected to grow from $3.1 billion in 2024 to $5.3 billion by 2032. The facility will be developed in two phases, with Phase 1 set to go live by late-2025, and full completion by 2027. It will produce Ayu Life Sciences' flagship products, including Velgraft, an artificial skin substitute designed for scar-free healing and tissue regeneration, Velvert, a natural antimicrobial wound care dressing formulated to accelerate healing and prevent infections, and VelNez, a nasal and ear dressing that enhances patient comfort and post-surgical recovery. These solutions are backed by a portfolio of 22 global patents and developed using eco-friendly materials and natural components to minimise environmental impact. The company currently exports from its Delhi facility to over 20 markets across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. In addition to advanced wound care, Ayu Life Sciences is progressing in the field of regenerative medicine. Clinical trials are underway for a novel therapy using cells similar to those in the pancreas to regulate blood sugar for patients with Type 1 diabetes, and for Velnerve, a solution for peripheral nerve injuries. With Jafza already home to over 800 manufacturing companies from 75 countries, Ayu Life Sciences joins a thriving ecosystem of global innovators.
Hi Dubai
25-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Ayu Life Sciences Launches AED33 Million Manufacturing Facility in Jafza
Ayu Life Sciences is setting up a AED 33 million (US$9 million) advanced manufacturing facility in Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), marking a regional first for high-tech wound care and surgical treatments. Spanning 13,500 square metres, the new site will produce next-generation medical solutions, including artificial skin and antimicrobial dressings, aimed at meeting surging global demand for sustainable healthcare products. Phase 1 of the project is scheduled to be operational by late 2025, with full completion expected by 2027. The facility will manufacture Ayu Life Sciences' key products: Velgraft™, a skin substitute for scar-free healing; Velvert™, a wound care dressing that prevents infection; and VelNez™, a post-surgical nasal and ear dressing. These products are backed by 22 global patents and developed using eco-friendly, natural materials. The move comes as the artificial skin market is projected to grow from US$3.1 billion in 2024 to US$5.3 billion by 2032. Ayu Life Sciences currently exports to over 20 countries from its Delhi base, serving some of the world's most tightly regulated healthcare markets. The company is also advancing research in regenerative medicine, with clinical trials underway for a potential Type 1 diabetes therapy and a treatment for peripheral nerve injuries. Dr. Rajan Datt, Managing Director of Ayu Life Sciences, called the Jafza expansion a 'major milestone,' highlighting Dubai's strategic value in scaling access to innovative care across the Middle East and beyond. Abdulla Al Hashmi, COO of Parks & Zones at DP World GCC, noted that the move underscores Dubai's growing role in advanced medical manufacturing and reinforces Jafza's position as a launchpad for global healthcare innovation. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Trade Arabia
24-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Ayu Life Sciences to set up $9m facility in Jafza
Ayu Life Sciences, a medical devices and cell therapy company, has announced plans to establish a new AED33 million ($9 million) advanced manufacturing facility at Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), the first of its kind in the region. The 13,500-sq-m facility will focus on the production of next-generation wound care solutions and surgical treatments, designed to meet the growing global demand for high-quality, sustainable healthcare products. The launch comes amid a surge in demand for artificial skin, with the market projected to grow from $3.1 billion in 2024 to $5.3 billion by 2032. The facility will be developed in two phases, with Phase 1 set to go live by late-2025, and full completion by 2027. It will produce Ayu Life Sciences' flagship products, including Velgraft, an artificial skin substitute designed for scar-free healing and tissue regeneration; Velvert, a natural antimicrobial wound care dressing formulated to accelerate healing and prevent infections; and VelNez, a nasal and ear dressing that enhances patient comfort and post-surgical recovery. These solutions are backed by a portfolio of 22 global patents and developed using eco-friendly materials and natural components to minimise environmental impact. The company currently exports from its Delhi facility to over 20 markets across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East, many with highly regulated healthcare markets. In addition to advanced wound care, Ayu Life Sciences is progressing in the field of regenerative medicine. Clinical trials are underway for a novel therapy using cells similar to those in the pancreas to regulate blood sugar for patients with Type 1 diabetes. Another trial is for Velnerve, a solution for peripheral nerve injuries. Dr Rajan Datt, Managing Director of Ayu Life Sciences, said: 'We're excited to announce our new facility in Jafza, marking a major milestone for Ayu Life Sciences. Our commitment to proprietary research and development enables us to consistently deliver excellent wound care products so we can continually push the boundaries of patient care. We look forward to breaking ground on this new facility and extending the reach of our flagship products like Velgraft, Velvert, and VelNez to more patients in the Middle East and around the globe.' Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, added: 'Jafza's manufacturing infrastructure and strategic connectivity make it the ideal launchpad for innovators like Ayu Life Sciences. This facility reinforces Dubai's growing role as a global hub for the healthcare and advanced medical manufacturing sectors. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to supporting cutting-edge industries that drive economic growth and improve lives.' -
