Solico Group invests $35.4mn in new Jafza food production hub

Solico Group has made its largest investment in the UAE to date with the launch of SoFood, a purpose-built food production facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), committing AED130 million ($35.4 million) to expand regional manufacturing capacity and support food security.

The new plant, which opens today (15 January 2026), will operate with an initial production capacity of up to 40 tonnes per day. Built on a 5,000 sq m site, the facility is equipped with advanced European manufacturing technologies and features a modular design that allows Solico to scale operations and introduce new food categories with minimal disruption.

Investment backs UAE food security

SoFood is positioned as Solico Group’s GCC innovation and international manufacturing hub, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a centre for high-value, export-oriented food production. The project also supports the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” objectives by shifting supply chains from trade-led models towards value-added local manufacturing.

Gholamali Soleimani, Founder and Group Chairman of Solico Group, said: “The UAE has created one of the most dynamic ecosystems in the world for food manufacturing and economic diversification. This investment allows us to deepen our regional footprint, transfer our expertise into the UAE, and build manufacturing capability that will support food security for years to come.”

The first phase of operations will focus on meat and protein products under Solico’s flagship Pemina brand, targeting distribution across the GCC and export markets. Subsequent phases are expected to add categories including cheese, dairy, premixes, sauces and co-packed solutions for hotels, airlines and food service clients, reflecting regional tastes and export demand.

The facility is designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy- and water-efficient systems, waste-minimisation processes and internationally recognised certifications including ISO 22000, HACCP and Halal standards.

Located within DP World’s logistics ecosystem, the site offers direct access to global trade corridors, enabling Solico to reach markets representing more than three billion consumers. His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said the investment highlighted Dubai’s attractiveness for manufacturers building regional and global export platforms.

Solico Group operates 16 factories globally, employs more than 25,000 people and reports annual turnover exceeding $1 billion. The SoFood facility marks a strategic step in positioning Dubai as the group’s international base for future growth.