DHL Group, the world’s leading logistics provider, has announced a major investment exceeding EUR 500 million in the Middle East, with a strategic emphasis on the rapidly developing Gulf economies, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The investment, which spans from 2024 to 2030, marks one of DHL’s most significant commitments to the region to date.
This bold move reflects DHL’s recognition of the Middle East’s growing importance as a global economic player and a central trade corridor linking Asia, Europe, and Africa.
The investment aligns with the company’s Strategy 2030, launched last year, which aims to capitalize on high-growth regions and long-term global trade shifts.
The capital injection will support all four divisions of DHL such as Express, Global Forwarding, Supply Chain, and eCommerce. It will include major infrastructure expansion, upgrades to warehousing and transportation networks, and enhanced service capacity.
The goal is to create a more resilient and efficient logistics ecosystem that can support both regional and international business growth.
CEO of DHL Express, John Pearson noted the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is becoming a major global logistics hub.
"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,” he added.
Beyond infrastructure, DHL’s investment will play a key role in stimulating foreign direct investment (FDI) and boosting export capabilities in the region.
The logistics giant aims to support both multinational companies expanding into the Middle East and local businesses seeking to export globally. By leveraging DHL’s international expertise and advanced digital platforms, businesses in the region can build more reliable supply chains in the face of ongoing global uncertainty.
The company has identified several high-potential sectors to focus on, including energy (oil, gas, renewables), healthcare, life sciences, and technology. These industries are undergoing rapid development in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and DHL intends to tailor its logistics solutions to support their unique needs.
The announcement also comes as governments in the Gulf push ambitious economic diversification agendas, including Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s drive to become a global trade and sustainability leader.
DHL’s investment supports these national strategies by reinforcing infrastructure, creating job opportunities, and positioning the region as a logistics powerhouse.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
