The Chinese market in Dubai, also known as “Dragon Mart,” is the largest Chinese shopping complex outside of China and is part of the Dubai International Trade City project. This market is a key destination for trade between the UAE and China, offering a vast array of Chinese products at competitive prices. Dragon Mart serves both traders and individual consumers and houses thousands of shops selling everything from electronics and clothing to furniture and household goods.
The Establishment of “Dragon Mart” and the Origin of the Idea
Nakheel Properties, through the Dubai Development Authority, is responsible for developing the Dragon Mart project. Nakheel is one of the largest real estate development companies in the UAE, known for its massive projects like the Palm Islands and Dubai International City.
How Did the Idea Begin? In the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the increasing volume of trade between China and the UAE, the Dubai government saw the establishment of a market dedicated to Chinese products as an opportunity to enhance trade relations with China and facilitate the access of Chinese products to the Middle East.
Dragon Mart opened its doors in December 2004, aiming to be a hub for wholesale and retail trade. The market is designed in the shape of a dragon, stretching one kilometer in length, and covers a vast area that includes more than 3,500 stores, reflecting Chinese culture and heritage.
The Significance of the Chinese Market in Dubai
- Enhancing Bilateral Trade: Dragon Mart strengthens trade between the UAE and China by providing a platform for Chinese companies to showcase their products and expand into regional markets.
- Competitive Prices: The market offers products at competitive prices for both consumers and traders, contributing to the diversity of products available in the UAE market.
- Employment Opportunities: Dragon Mart provides employment opportunities for thousands of workers in various fields, from trade to logistics.
- Attracting Tourists: The market is not just a place for trade but has also become a tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world for a unique shopping experience.
Expansion and Development
Due to the immense success of the first Dragon Mart, “Dragon Mart 2” was developed and opened in 2015, adding additional space that includes new shops, entertainment facilities, a hotel, and a conference center.
Conclusion
Dragon Mart is a massive project that reflects the strong trade relations between the UAE and China, contributing to Dubai’s status as a global trade center. Thanks to Nakheel and the Dubai government, this market has become a successful model for international cooperation and trade exchange and continues to grow and expand to serve local and regional markets increasingly.