DHL Group to Invest Over €500M in Fast-Growing Middle East Markets
This significant investment aims to bolster its logistics network and meet increasing demand, reinforcing its commitment to regional growth
DHL Group, the global frontrunner in logistics, has revealed ambitious plans to invest more than EUR 500 million across the Middle East, with a sharp focus on Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This bold investment, scheduled for roll-out between 2024 and 2030, reflects the company’s renewed strategic outlook under its “Strategy 2030.” As global trade realigns and new growth corridors emerge, DHL is strengthening its foothold in regions poised to shape the future of commerce.
Transforming Regional Logistics Infrastructure Across Divisions
This multi-billion-euro investment spans all four of DHL’s core business segments – Express, Global Forwarding, Supply Chain, and eCommerce – and is set to revolutionize the logistics framework in the Gulf. DHL’s focus is on modernizing infrastructure, expanding operational capacity, and enhancing service offerings to help businesses navigate an increasingly complex trade environment. The comprehensive suite of services provided by DHL includes express shipping, multimodal freight solutions, warehousing and distribution, customs services, and tailored logistics for sectors like pharmaceuticals, retail, and green technologies.
“The region of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is rapidly emerging as a global logistics and innovation hub,” said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “Our investment reflects the region’s increasing strategic importance in connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa, and our commitment to supporting its transformation into a catalyst for regional and global trade. DHL Express is seeing dynamic growth and export potential in the region’s e-commerce sector, for example, which is providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and smaller businesses to expand their offering to global markets.”
Middle East as a Strategic Global Trade Nexus
The Middle East’s growing role as a pivotal trade gateway linking Asia, Europe, and North America, as well as its proximity to Africa, makes it a magnet for global and regional investment. DHL is capitalizing on this momentum by offering adaptable and resilient supply chain solutions, underpinned by its global expertise and state-of-the-art digital tools. The region is not only attracting international corporations but also fostering strong export growth from homegrown enterprises. With this, DHL aims to reinforce supply chains against rising geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain, Europe, Middle East & Africa, added, “DHL Supply Chain has actively expanded in Saudi Arabia and UAE in recent years, recognizing the positive economic development, the increasing maturity and sophistication of supply chain operations in the region and the growing demand for specialized, outsourced logistics support. With a strong focus on the energy sector, life sciences, healthcare, and technology, we are poised to take advantage of our contract logistics expertise to meet the unique needs of our customers and drive innovation in these critical areas.”
P: Abdulaziz Busbate - CEO DHL Express Middle East and North Africa
Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding, Middle East & Africa, remarked, “This investment underscores our confidence in the Middle East's economic trajectory and our continued commitment to be ahead of the curve in digital capabilities and sustainable transportation for our customers. We also consistently aim to find entrepreneurial freight forwarding solutions that build supply chain resilience, keep their goods flowing and help them to uncover growth opportunities in a world that is characterized by uncertainty and volatility. By expanding our operations, we will be even better positioned to support our clients in navigating the complexities of international trade and logistics.”
Sector-Specific Potential: Energy, Healthcare, and E-Commerce
The investment strategy also taps into key high-growth industries in the region. DHL is expanding its focus on both conventional and renewable energy sectors, in line with the region’s evolving energy ambitions. Meanwhile, life sciences and healthcare logistics are becoming critical areas of focus, supported by the rising demand for temperature-controlled and time-sensitive deliveries. The surge in e-commerce, especially in Saudi Arabia’s luxury retail segment, driven by tourism and major events, presents further opportunity for DHL to optimize B2C delivery models.
Upgrading Capabilities for Speed, Scale, and Sustainability
In DHL Express, the investment will fund new hubs, gateway expansions, and enhanced air freight capacity, enabling faster and more reliable deliveries. DHL Global Forwarding will boost its regional reach through upgraded fleets – including electric trucks – and partnerships such as its joint venture with Etihad Rail, which aims to create more connected logistics corridors. DHL Supply Chain is set to grow its warehousing footprint and introduce advanced automation technologies in both the UAE and KSA, while DHL eCommerce strengthens last-mile delivery through its acquisition of Saudi-based AJEX.
Accelerating the Shift to Green Logistics
A central pillar of DHL’s plan is its commitment to sustainability. The company is actively investing in cleaner technologies, including electric vehicles, sustainable aviation fuel, biofuels for land and sea freight, and solar-powered facilities. These initiatives align with the Middle East’s broader push toward climate responsibility and net-zero targets. DHL aims to be a key enabler of environmentally responsible trade in the region, helping customers meet their sustainability goals through innovation and best-in-class logistics practices.
Reinforcing DHL’s Legacy as a Regional Leader
This significant investment reflects DHL’s long-standing commitment to the Middle East, not just as a logistics partner, but as an enabler of economic progress and innovation. As the region continues to evolve into a global trade powerhouse, DHL is positioning itself at the heart of that transformation, supporting businesses with smarter, greener, and more agile logistics solutions.
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