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First fruits of peace with Israel on display in UAE market

Direct flights between the UAE and Israel are now set to start on Nov 26.

Staff Writers
2 minute read
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A handout image provided by United Arab Emirates News Agency shows Emirati and Israeli delegates signing an agreement at the first Abraham Accords Business Summit in Abu Dhabi on Oct 19. Photo: AFP
A handout image provided by United Arab Emirates News Agency shows Emirati and Israeli delegates signing an agreement at the first Abraham Accords Business Summit in Abu Dhabi on Oct 19. Photo: AFP

It’s only a veggie stall in a produce market but on Saturday it became a significant step in international relations as the Fresh Market in Dubai opened its first ever Israeli fruit and vegetables display.

It forms the latest link in the two countries’ efforts to establish diplomatic and business links, the Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, greeted the Israeli exporter at the market.

Shlomi Fogel, chairman of Carmel Agrexco one of Israel’s largest exporters of agricultural produce said, “The export of fresh agricultural products from Israel to the UAE has a significant advantage because of the geographical closeness and the speed with which the products can be transported directly to markets in the UAE and beyond.

“It’s a fact that Israeli agriculture is highly advanced, and we are confident that everyone will enjoy our produce. We are excited to be part of the growing ties between Israel and the UAE. Together with our colleagues in Dubai, we are beginning to see the ‘fruits of peace’ today.”

In September, the UAE and Israel signed a historic peace agreement called the Abrahams Accord, at the White House in Washington.

With President Donald Trump doing the brokering, the two formerly opposed sides agreed that along with establishing diplomatic relations they would also promote investment and tourism, as well as launch direct flights connecting the two countries.

Direct flights between the UAE and Israel are now set to start on Nov 26 through Dubai-based airline Flydubai.

Last week UAE and Israeli ministers agreed to form a joint team dedicated to establishing anti-crime programmes and safety services.