PM Modi In UAE Day 2: What Is Bharat Mart, The Mega Facility Inaugurated By PM Modi In Dubai?

On Day 2 in the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's schedule is filled with events and engagements. Besides the significant inauguration of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir, the first-ever Hindu temple in the UAE, Bharat Mart, a warehousing facility for Indian MSMEs to trade in Dubai, was also virtually launched by him.

India is in the planning stages of establishing its warehousing facility, Bharat Mart, in the UAE. This facility aims to provide a centralized platform for exporters to showcase their diverse range of products, similar to China's 'Dragon Mart'. Although the concept is still under development, the facility is anticipated to commence operations by 2025.

Bharat Mart: Features and Location

Bharat Mart is projected to cover an extensive area exceeding 100,000 square meters, serving as a multipurpose establishment offering a combination of warehouse, retail, and hospitality units. Situated in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), managed by DP World, the facility will include retail showrooms, warehouses, offices, and ancillary facilities catering to various categories of goods, from heavy machinery to perishable items.

Bharat Mart: Digital Platform Integration

Additionally, plans are underway to integrate a digital platform, allowing buyers worldwide to procure goods from Bharat Mart remotely, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

Bharat Mart: Significance in Bilateral Relations between India and UAE

The Bharat Mart project assumes significance in light of the bilateral trade goals set by India and the UAE. Both nations aim to double their non-petroleum trade target to $100 billion by 2030 under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Similar to China's Dragon Mart: India's Bharat Mart in JAFZA

India's Bharat Mart, to be constructed in JAFZA, bears striking similarities to China's Dragon Mart in International City. Dragon Mart, the largest Chinese trading hub outside of mainland China, was constructed in 2004, with a second building added in 2015. Today, it features cinemas and eateries from around the world.

As noted by Foreign Policy in a 2016 report, Dragon Mart caters primarily to Arab expatriates, Indian residents, and tourists from Iran and Russia, offering a vast array of goods from Chinese manufacturers. Bharat Mart, like Dragon Mart, serves as a commercial hub outside the glitzy malls of Dubai, offering a diverse range of products.

PM Modi's Engagement in UAE

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Abu Dhabi underscored the robust relationship between India and the UAE. He was warmly received by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and engaged in extensive discussions, covering various sectors such as trade, investment, digital infrastructure, fintech, energy, infrastructure, culture, and people-to-people ties.

Highlights of PM Modi's Address

During his visit, PM Modi addressed the Indian community at the 'Ahlan Modi' event in Abu Dhabi. His speech emphasized the longstanding friendship between India and the UAE, the upcoming temple in Abu Dhabi, and India's remarkable achievements.

PM Modi's Top Quotes From Community Event In Abu Dhabi

Key Points from PM Modi's Speech in UAE

1. Unity in Diversity: Despite hailing from different states, the people gathered in the historic stadium are united by their hearts, echoing the sentiment of friendship between India and the UAE.

2. Message of Pride: PM Modi conveyed the pride of 1.4 billion Indians to the audience, emphasizing their significance and contribution.

3. Gratitude to Supporters: PM Modi expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support of the attendees, acknowledging their exceptional love and enthusiasm.

4. Acknowledgment of UAE Leadership: PM Modi thanked UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed for his instrumental role in fostering strong ties between the two nations, highlighting his warm reception during past visits.

5. Historical Significance: Reflecting on his earlier visits to the UAE, PM Modi recalled the warm reception he received and the foundation laid for significant initiatives, such as the proposal for the BAPS temple.

6. Cultural Exchange and Trade Relations: PM Modi underscored the cultural and economic ties between India and the UAE, emphasizing their shared values and robust trade partnership.

7. Vision for India's Development: PM Modi outlined India's aspiration to become a developed nation by 2047, highlighting its economic growth and achievements in various sectors.

8. Commitment to Transformation: PM Modi reiterated his commitment to transforming India into the world's third-largest economy, citing ongoing developments and changes witnessed by recent visitors to India.

By summarizing PM Modi's speech into key points, the essence of his message and vision for India's relationship with the UAE is highlighted for the audience.