Al Ghurair Foods to complete first phase of UAE’s first corn starch plant by Q1 2026
Al Ghurair Foods, a division of the UAE’s diversified Al Ghurair Group, has announced that the first phase of its pioneering corn starch plant in Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) is on track for completion in the first quarter of 2026.
This facility marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates, aimed at boosting domestic production and reducing reliance on imports.
The plant has already achieved substantial progress, with major civil and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) works completed.
Installation of advanced processing equipment is currently underway, setting the stage for the launch of its flagship corn starch product early next year.
The phased rollout will continue with additional product lines introduced in subsequent stages.
Strategically located in KEZAD, the facility is designed to serve both the UAE and neighbouring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
By replacing the bulk of the UAE’s annual corn starch imports, estimated at US$20 million, the plant is expected to enhance food security and support key downstream industries such as paper, packaging, and food processing with products such as flour, grains, pasta and noodles.
Hamad Al Ghurair, Vice President of Al Ghurair Foods, emphasized the plant’s role in strengthening the UAE’s industrial capabilities.
“This project reflects our commitment to innovation and sustainability, while supporting the nation’s strategic goals for industrial self-sufficiency,” he said during the Propaper 2025 industry show in Dubai.
The initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader economic diversification strategy, promoting local manufacturing and reducing dependency on imported raw materials.
It also supports KEZAD’s vision of becoming a regional hub for industrial excellence, offering world-class infrastructure and logistics.
As the UAE continues to attract strategic investments in food and industrial manufacturing, Al Ghurair Foods’ corn starch plant stands out as a transformative project.
Once operational, it will not only meet domestic demand but also position the UAE as a competitive supplier within the GCC region.
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