Confectionery giant Mars Inc has opened a US$40m chocolate factory in Dubai.The new facility will produce Mars and Snickers bars for the Gulf markets.

Mars said the investment reflects the company’s “long-term commitment” to the region, with the creation of new jobs and an expansion of local resources. Speaking at the opening, Ahmed Bayoumi, general manager of Mars GCC, said: “We are pleased that consumer demand in the Middle East has and continues to generate opportunities for stable long term growth.

Mars built its first factory in Dubai in 1998. The facility will continue to produce the full range of Galaxy chocolates. Both factories will distribute products to more than 20 countries in the Arab States of the Gulf, Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.