Solico Group has expanded its regional footprint with the launch of SoFood, an AED130 million purpose-built production facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone, which will serve as its GCC innovation and international manufacturing hub
The 5,000 m² facility is equipped with advanced European technology, has an initial capacity of up to 40 tons per day, and features a modular design that allows for rapid expansion into new food categories, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a centre for export-focused food manufacturing.
“The UAE has created one of the most dynamic ecosystems in the world for food manufacturing and economic diversification,” said Mr. Gholamali Soleimani, Founder and Group Chairman, Solico Group. “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. It is also a reflection of the values my family built this company on more than 50 years ago.”
As the first developer of a milk refinery facility in Central Asia, Solico Group is bringing its manufacturing and innovation capabilities to the UAE, with the project largely executed locally to support domestic industrial development. The investment shifts supply chains from trading-led models to value-added production, strengthening food security, with scope to scale total investment to two or three times its initial value.
The first phase will focus on meat and protein production under Solico’s Pemina brand for GCC and export markets, followed by additional categories including cheese, dairy, premixes, sauces and co-packed solutions for hospitality and foodservice. SoFood will also function as the group’s regional innovation hub, developing products tailored to Middle Eastern markets, shortening supply chains and supporting local skills development.
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World said: “Jafza continues to attract manufacturers that want to build for the region and export to the world. Solico’s decision to make its largest UAE investment here reflects the strength of Dubai’s industrial ecosystem and we look forward to seeing it strengthen food security, create high-quality jobs and support the UAE’s ambition to grow a competitive, value-added manufacturing sector.”
Sustainability is integrated across the facility through energy- and water-efficient systems, waste-reduction processes, and certifications including ISO 22000, HACCP, Halal and Dubai Municipality Grade A. Located within the DP World–operated Jebel Ali ecosystem, the site offers direct access to global logistics networks, enabling Solico to reach more than three billion consumers and supporting the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” manufacturing agenda.
