Abu dhabi: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi - KEZAD Group, along with Barakat Group, has announced the start of construction for a new baby food manufacturing facility in collaboration with Pure Baby Food Industries.
According to Emirates News Agency, this project will be the first of its kind in the Gulf Cooperation Council, focusing exclusively on producing baby food pur©es on an industrial scale.
The facility, representing an investment of approximately AED150 million, aims to enhance local food manufacturing capabilities and cater to the increasing regional demand for locally produced infant nutrition. Spanning 10,000 square meters, it is expected to produce 90 million units annually, including fruit, vegetable, and protein-rich meat and fish pur©es. Products will be offered in both pouch and glass jar formats, with selected ambient juice products also being part of the production.
The project is anticipated to generate around 200 direct jobs in various roles, including manufacturing, quality assurance, food safety, logistics, and operational support. Additionally, it is expected to create indirect employment opportunities across supply chains, logistics, and agricultural sourcing.
The facility will be fully halal-certified, addressing the limited availability of locally produced, halal-compliant protein baby foods. Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO of Economic Cities and Free Zones Cluster - AD Ports Group, stated that this investment showcases the scale of sophisticated food manufacturing projects opting for KEZAD, highlighting the economic and strategic benefits of specialized manufacturing.
Kenneth D Costa, Managing Director of Barakat Group, emphasized that the facility reinforces the group's mission to support national ambitions by expanding into premium infant nutrition. The initiative is designed to adhere to international food safety, quality, and traceability standards, aiming to reduce reliance on imported baby food products and foster a domestic, halal baby food manufacturing ecosystem.
This project aligns with national goals related to food security, local manufacturing, and value-added food production, marking a significant step in the growth of Abu Dhabi's food processing sector within KEZAD.
