Over 570 new facilities were leased during January-March quarter, compared to 350 companies for the same period last year by the authority. The newcomers, started operations at Jafza in first quarter, include Michelin and Essar Steel.
“The growth of Jafza has been driven by long-term commitment to industrial, trade and logistics sectors, providing highly valued infrastructure, tools and services, consistently,” Salma Hareb, Chief Executive Officer, Economic Zones World, said.
Mrs Hareb said about 200 existing companies are also expanding their operations at the free zone, reflecting a sign of economic recovery.
“We are confident we will be able to maintain our growth pace this year and onwards, through our various initiatives,” she said.
Mrs Hareb said Jafza has closed its first quarter on a high note, marking its 25th year of operation with consistent performance and contribution to the country’s economy.
“Jafza has always been a key contributor to Dubai’s economy, currently accounting for over a quarter of its GDP. In the years to come, we will continue to play the role of a key driver of Dubai’s economy,” she said.
Jafza is built over an area of 48 square kilometres. It ranks among the world’s largest and the fastest growing free zones. In its 25 years of operation, Jafza has posted more than 320 times growth in its number of companies groing from 19 in 1985 to 6,500 in 2009.
