A part of the Al Shindagha Vegetable and Fruit Market that was closed last week will be taken up by the French retail giant Carrefour as part of its expansion plans, while the affected shop owners will be financially compensated, according to Dubai Municipality officials.

While about 100 shops selling fish, vegetables and fruits have been shut down, slaughterhouse and the other stores will continue functioning until further notice, said a DM official.

Obaid Ibrahim Al-Marzouqi, Head of the markets Department, Dubai Municipality, denied offering an alternative market to affected traders. He said the municipality will pay them appropriate financial compensation provided they submit proof of evacuation, documents to show they paid rentals, as well as Dewa clearance bills.

He said traders can receive compensation from the Division of Leasing of investment department at Dubai Municipality. However, he did not spell out the amount or how the statistics would be calculated.

As far as customers are concerned they can shop from Carrefour, he said.  He also refused to divulge details of the deal Carrefour struck with the municipality. Al-Marzouqi said, the decision to shut down the market was taken in line with the municipality's plan to enhance the emirate's financial, investment and aesthetic status. It was not a financial issue at all, he added.

He denied closing any other such markets in the emirate. "There are markets to be developed without the expulsion of traders, such as Al Hamriyah market," he added.

He said there are plans to launch four markets in residential neighbourhoods, including a market for heavy vehicle equipment and an antique market.

He added the municipality had given Al Shindagha market shop owners a grace period until September 30 to vacate.