Al Ghurair Foods launches industrial food ingredients portfolio, plans UAE’s first corn starch manufacturing plant
Al Ghurair Foods expands into value-added B2B ingredient supply and announces major food processing investments in Abu Dhabi’s KEZAD.
UAE – Al Ghurair Foods has introduced its first industrial food ingredients portfolio at Gulfood Manufacturing 2025, marking a major milestone as the company transitions from commodity trading to value-added ingredient supply for manufacturers.
At the event, the company unveiled its new Food Ingredients Division, designed to serve manufacturers in the bakery, confectionery, beverage, and baby food sectors.
The launch aligns with Al Ghurair Foods’ ambition to become a leading regional supplier of premium ingredients across the GCC and the wider Middle East.
Technical experts from the company will provide guidance on ingredient applications and integration, assisting manufacturers in selecting suitable solutions for their production needs.
In line with its expansion, Al Ghurair Foods announced plans to establish the UAE’s first Corn Starch Manufacturing Plant in the first half of 2026. The facility, to be located at Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), will be the first and largest of its kind in the GCC.
It will produce starches, glucose, and maltodextrin—making Al Ghurair Foods the first producer of baby food ingredients, particularly maltodextrin, in the MENA region.
The project marks a significant step toward localising ingredient manufacturing and enhancing regional food security.
Additionally, the company is introducing the GCC’s first fermentation and spray drying technologies, representing an AED 500 million (US$136.15M) investment aimed at strengthening local production capabilities and encouraging further industrial development in the UAE. These initiatives collectively position Al Ghurair Foods among the most advanced food industry players in the region.
“Our investments into food production are designed to support the region’s growing food ecosystem,” said Turgut Yegenaga, Chief Executive Officer of Al Ghurair Foods.
“By focusing on local production and value-added products, we’re helping our partners maintain quality, security, and efficiency while driving food industry growth and food security across the GCC.”
The Corn Starch Manufacturing Plant forms part of Al Ghurair’s AED 1 billion investment in food processing projects in KEZAD, which also include a Broiler Farm, Liquid Eggs facility, and Poultry Processing Plant.
Al Ghurair is one of the Middle East’s largest diversified family business groups, headquartered in Dubai, with operations spanning more than 20 countries and employing approximately 28,000 people.
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