Ruler of Dubai tours sprawling new food bazaar

Fish and food market covers more than 100,000 square metres

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tours the recently opened Waterfront Market which replaced the Deira Fish Market. Courtesy-Dubai Media Office)

A sprawling new market that sells fresh fish and other supplies has opened and the Ruler of Dubai was among the first to tour the facility.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, visited the Waterfront Market in the Al Hamriya district in Dubai.

The new state-of-the-art facility covers an area of over 100,000 square metres and includes a fish market and auction area, a fruit and vegetable market, and a meat and poultry market, as well as stores for dry goods, spices, dates, honey and many more items. The market also features a hypermarket, a mix of retail stores, office space and a promenade area for cafes and restaurants.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, also toured the site.

Sheikh Mohammed said that he was pleased with the market, according to state news agency WAM, which overlooks the Arabian Gulf. Along with the fresh food markets, there will also be a bazaar for retail, creating a one stop shop for all customers. Restaurants, banks, coffee shops, a dried fruit and herb market, as well as an open facing promenade that looks out to the Corniche where shoppers can go for leisurely strolls, are also included.

Sheikh Mohammed inspected the adjacent fishing boat and water taxi piers, as well as the taxi reception area that will cater to tourists visiting the market, boasting underground parking for 1,200 cars.

The Waterfront Market was developed by Ithra Dubai, which is wholly owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai, ICD. Following its construction, the facility was handed over to the Dubai Municipality, which will manage it.