HH Sheikh Mohammed visits world's largest private dates factory at DIC

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited Al Barakah Dates Factory on Monday, the world’s largest privately-owned dates factory located in Dubai Industrial City (DIC).

During the visit, H.H Sheikh Mohammed affirmed that the United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for advanced food industries through innovation, stronger production chains, and boosting the competitiveness of national products.

He noted that the dates industry is a successful example of turning the country’s agricultural heritage into a modern, high-value added sector that supports the economy and enhances food security.

He added that the dates industry is part of the UAE’s identity and heritage, and its development reflects a vision of turning resources into sustainable opportunities.

Launched in 2004, the facility in Dubai Industrial City spans over 800,000 square feet, with an annual production capacity of 100,000 tonnes, one of the market leaders for packaging and processing dates in the world.

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed also reviewed the global reach of the factory’s products, which are exported to 97 countries, with the US, the UK, and EU among the key markets.

The news comes after H.H. Sheikh Mohammed recently unveiled plans for the "1 Billion Meals Dates Factory", set to be completed in 2027 to become the world's largest date factory.

The goal of the project will be to "produce 150 million date-fortified food units annually, dedicated to children suffering from malnutrition and to combat hunger in less fortunate communities."

Funded by an AED200 million donation from renowned businessman Mirwais Azizi, operations at the 1 Billion Meals Dates Factory will be managed by Al Barakah Dates.

Mohammed bin Rashid visits Al Barakah Dates Factory, the world’s largest privately owned dates factory at Dubai Industrial City. Spanning over 800,000 square feet, the facility has an annual production capacity of 100,000 tonnes and stands as a global leader in date processing… pic.twitter.com/nqUuvrfLfM

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 27, 2026