DHL Group to Invest More Than EUR 500 Million in Fast-Growing Middle East Market

DHL Group announced plans to invest more than EUR 500 million in the Middle East, strategically focusing on the rapidly growing Gulf markets of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

This investment, to be realized between 2024 and 2030, underscores DHL's commitment to the region and its importance for the future of global trade. DHL Group's 2030 Strategy, launched in 2024, prioritizes growth regions and geographical advantages created by transformations in global trade.

The operations, encompassing DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, DHL Supply Chain and DHL eCommerce, aim to strengthen the Middle East's logistics infrastructure and further consolidate the region's strategic role in global trade. This investment exceeding EUR 500 million includes significant improvements in service quality in addition to infrastructure, network and capacity expansions.

The objective is to support the growth potential of businesses operating in the Middle East, enable them to capitalize on opportunities and provide flexibility against changing market conditions. DHL serves a broad range of sectors through each business unit, from express parcel delivery to air, sea and road transport, and provides integrated solutions. Additionally, the company adds value to its customers through specialized operations in sectors such as life sciences, healthcare, e-commerce and mobile logistics.

DHL Express CEO John Pearson emphasized that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is advancing rapidly toward becoming a global logistics and innovation center. Pearson stated: "This investment is a demonstration of our commitment to supporting the region's strategic importance to Asia, Europe and Africa and its potential to be a catalyst for global trade. In particular, dynamic growth in the e-commerce sector and export volumes present opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses to access global markets."

Investment, Exports and Resilient Supply Chains Are DHL's Priorities
The Middle East is strengthening its strategic position as one of the main trade hubs between Asia, Europe and the US, while also serving as a bridge to Africa. The region maintains economic dynamism through increasing investments by multinational corporations and export-driven growth of Gulf and Middle East-based businesses. During this period, DHL strengthens businesses' supply chains through local and global expertise, advanced transport-storage infrastructure and digital solutions. The flexibility provided through automation and advanced technologies draws attention for the competitive advantage it offers despite uncertainties in global trade.

DHL Europe, Middle East and Africa CEO Hendrik Venter, highlighting the region's economic dynamism and logistics needs, stated: "In recent years, while increasing our investments in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, we took into consideration positive economic trends in the region, the evolving structure of supply chains and demand for specialized logistics solutions. By focusing on the energy, life sciences, health and technology sectors, we will continue to provide our customers with innovative and sustainable supply chain solutions."

DHL Global Forwarding Middle East and Africa CEO Amadou Diallo emphasized the strategic importance of the investment with these words: "This move is an indication of our confidence in the Middle East economy and our commitment to being a leader in sustainable logistics through digital transformation. By developing innovative solutions for our customers, we aim to increase supply chain resilience and guarantee operations even in an environment of global uncertainty. With our expanding areas of operations, we will support our customers' growth without being deterred by the complexities of international trade."

DHL Group closely monitors transformation in the energy sector and evaluates growth opportunities in renewable energy and electrification. The company also strategically addresses the potential in the rapidly developing e-commerce market as well as life sciences and healthcare sectors. In this context, Saudi Arabia stands out with its advances in tourism and events sectors, becoming a center distinguished by premium products.

Which areas will DHL's investments focus on?
DHL strategically positions its EUR 500 million investment in the Middle East by business unit. DHL Express will enhance aviation capacity and hub facilities to increase service efficiency and delivery speed. DHL Global Forwarding will strengthen its regional presence, continue fleet investments and expand sustainable logistics projects such as its electric truck collaboration with Etihad Rail. The Supply Chain unit will expand warehouse infrastructure in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, optimizing operational efficiency through technology integration. In e-commerce, the acquisition of AJEX will strengthen last-mile delivery solutions, providing competitive advantage in the region's dynamic e-commerce market.

DHL continues pioneering investments in sustainable logistics with determination
The company is implementing electric and alternative fuel delivery vehicles, sustainable fuels in aviation, biofuels in road and maritime transport, and solar energy and clean energy solutions in its facilities. This comprehensive approach reduces both the environmental footprint of supply chains and supports customers in achieving net-zero emissions targets. DHL's strategy is in full alignment with Middle East governments' sustainable development agenda. The company, pioneering innovation and best practices in the logistics sector, continues to strengthen its leading position by supporting the region's economic potential.