Fueling The Future: DHL Express MENA CEO Unpacks €500 Million Investment And Bold Growth Strategy

DHL Group, the global leader in logistics, has committed over €500 million to the Middle East between 2024 and 2030, targeting the dynamic Gulf markets of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the UAE. This investment, aligned with DHL's Strategy 2030 launched in 2024, aims to capitalize on the region's role as a pivotal trade hub connecting Asia, Europe, the US, and Africa.

By bolstering infrastructure, expanding networks, and enhancing service capabilities across its four divisions—DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, DHL Supply Chain, and DHL eCommerce—DHL seeks to empower businesses to navigate global trade's evolving demands with resilience and efficiency.

DHL Express, a cornerstone of the group's operations, plays a critical role in delivering express parcel services, while other divisions provide air, ocean, and overland freight, warehousing, customs brokerage, and specialized logistics for sectors like e-commerce, healthcare, and battery logistics.

In a candid conversation during the Geographic Tailwinds Gulf Tour 2025, Abdulaziz Busbate, CEO of DHL Express MENA, shared with OneArabia his confident outlook on the Middle East’s economic momentum and DHL’s pivotal role in shaping its logistics future.

The Middle East, Busbate believes, is poised for sustained growth fueled by an influx of multinational investments, thriving export sectors, and a rapidly evolving e-commerce ecosystem. At the heart of this transformation lies a growing demand for advanced logistics solutions—something DHL is ready to meet with its deep-rooted expertise, expansive infrastructure, and agile digital platforms.

At the core of DHL’s regional strategy is a €500 million investment — a bold commitment that signals confidence in the region’s long-term potential. “DHL Express will receive significant share,” Busbate said. “This includes upgrades to our hubs and gateways, fleet modernization, and enhancements to our aviation capacity.” Recent highlights include a newly launched facility in Abu Dhabi and strategic developments in Oman.

However, the next growth engine is e-commerce. “DHL eCommerce is set to scale dramatically,” Busbate added, pointing to the company’s acquisition of Saudi-based AJEX Logistics earlier this year. The rebranded entity, AJEX, is expected to roll out soon across the Kingdom, UAE, Kuwait, and Oman. The goal? To provide a one-stop-shop logistics solution that meets the evolving needs of digital-first consumers.

Strategic acquisitions and partnerships are accelerating this vision. The AJEX acquisition, in particular, enhances DHL’s e-commerce capabilities in the Gulf. Separately, the ASMO joint venture with the Saudi government under DHL Supply Chain operates independently but complements the wider strategy of capturing the region’s e-commerce boom.

In an age where logistics resilience is under pressure, DHL is turning to digital innovation. “Digitalisation is a key pillar,” Busbate explained. “We’re integrating AI and automation into every layer—from customer service and call center automation at DHL Express to advanced warehouse management systems within DHL Supply Chain. Even our sales platforms are now driven by IT, improving efficiency and connectivity.”

But the company’s commitment goes beyond infrastructure and tech. “People remain at the core of our success,” Busbate emphasized, underlining DHL’s proactive role in national workforce development. In Saudi Arabia, over 55% of DHL employees are locals, while partnerships with universities in the UAE and Qatar are helping build a new generation of logistics professionals through training and career development programs.

Looking ahead, DHL has its sights set firmly on the horizon. “We’re targeting at least 30% growth across the MENA region in the next five years,” Busbate concluded. “Our combined focus on infrastructure, innovation, and local talent will power this journey, solidifying our leadership in global logistics.”

In a region where geography meets opportunity, DHL is not just moving packages — it’s moving the future forward.