DHL Express is planning major expansion in the UAE as part of a AED365 million development of the Express Integrator cluster at the East Midfield Development Zone located in Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ).
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone Authority, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Airports, has signed an expansive 27-year Musataha agreement with Middle East General Enterprises (MGE) to facilitate the presence of DHL Express in ADAFZ.
The long-term relationship is in line with ADAFZ’s commitment to providing world-class infrastructure to enable express cargo companies to expand their operations at AUH and increase their transportation and cargo volumes.
DHL Express will serve as a key client within ADAFZ’s Express Integrator cluster, and in close collaboration with MGE combined will invest up to AED365 million in the new facility.The DHL expansion will cover 30,000 square metres and aims to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2021.
DHL’s operations at Abu Dhabi International Airport have grown significantly over the years, starting with a facility at AUH Cargo Village, prior to expanding to more than 4,300 square metres in the Logistics Park, and now to an expansive plot of land with both airside and landside access.
Sheikh Mohammad Bin Hamad Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The signing of this agreement is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s position as an international gateway for trade and commerce throughout the Middle East, as well as the long-standing relationship between Abu Dhabi Airports and DHL.
“E-commerce is transforming the retail landscape throughout the region and we look forward to playing our role in supporting the growth of this new industry through our world-class infrastructure at Abu Dhabi International Airport.”
Bryan Thompson, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “We are delighted to be working with DHL as we continue to enhance Abu Dhabi’s position as an international transport and logistics centre, in line with our mission of becoming the world’s leading airports group.”
Nour Suliman, CEO, DHL Express MENA, added: “The collaboration reiterates DHL’s strategic mission to strengthen our facilities and key positions across the UAE and the wider Middle East region. In line with our long-term objectives the new facility at Abu Dhabi International Airport is our latest investment to support global trade to and from the capital of the UAE.
“We are confident that the new facility will meet the increasing demand for a faster and more efficient operational process.”
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