The powerhouse colossus for total logistics and supply chain services in the State of Qatar.
With a complete line-up of AWD and PWD versions and the the 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, the IVECO T-WAY features a host of functionalities such as Rocking Mode, Off-road Mode, Creeping Mode and 4 reverse gears to tackle with ease the toughest off-road conditions. The new architecture of the EBS system, combined with disc brakes on all wheels, greatly improves the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s safety in the most demanding applications.
The new IVECO S-WAY, with a completely redesigned and reinforced cab, offers a wide choice of Euro III/V diesel engines, a delivering class-leading power from 360 HP to 560 HP Euro III / 570 HP Euro V and superior fuel-saving devices, such as anti-idling feature, Ecoswitch, Ecoroll and Smart Alternator, 12-speed HI-TRONIX automated transmission with the most advanced technology in its category, electronic clutch and best-in-class torque-to-weight ratio.
Almajdouie Logistics presents an array of storage options strategically situated across Saudi Arabia. Our modern warehouses are thoughtfully designed to cater to a spectrum of storage needs, including dry, ambient, chilled, and frozen storage.
At the core of our warehouses lies a fusion of state-of-the-art technology and global standards, resulting in an end-to-end service. Almajdouie Logistics empowers you with superior command over the entire logistics process, guided by end-to-end services and executed by a proficient workforce. Our unwavering commitment to safety, punctual deliveries, exceptional client care, and a user-friendly dashboard for real-time stock visibility sets us apart.
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By the Company’s own admission, new and unprecedented logistics trends and capabilities are now beginning to take shape in the Qatari industrial world. These are pioneered by the Doha-based warehousing and logistics company that has since its inception, now catapulted into the frontlines of the logistics and supply chain landscape of this GCC peninsula country.
GWC shot into prominence as the official logistics partner for the renowned grand spectacle—the FIFA World Cup 2022. Thanks to the company’s capabilities, expertise and industry expertise, the mega event was conducted seamlessly and like clockwork, much to the satisfaction and admiration of all stakeholders involved.
The company which began operating in 2005 with a single small warehouse and a few vehicles, has since grown to become Qatar’s largest logistics provider in terms of infrastructure, employees and range of services.
In recognition of its professional standing not only in its native Qatar but also in the GCC, Global Supply Chain has featured GWC as our lead, cover story in this edition. We have an exclusive with Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC.
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In this power-packed issue, we have covered multiple companies. Among them is UD Trucks, the leading manufacturer of premium commercial trucks. We have interviewed Mourad Hedna, President, UD Trucks, MEENA in this edition.
Elsewhere, we also attended and reported the landmark partnership between signatories Hellmann and transport company ATS, inked in Dubai, which will see the road network coverage leapfrog considerably.
We have also highlighted two outstanding case studies from the Ehrhardt and Partner Group featuring Falcon Pack, the UAE’s leading packager and DHL, one of the big-league express transportation companies in the world. The logistics and supply chain industry across the globe and notably the Middle East is volatile and at the crossroads; and we will continue to work hard to bring you to current on developments, reports, features, one-onone interviews, on a wide range of interesting and related subjects both in our flagship monthly print-digital publication, Global Supply Chain, and also on our web portal www.globalsupplychainme.com
Contributor’s opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor and while every precaution has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate and timely, no liability is accepted by them for errors or omissions, however caused.
Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Signature Media FZ LLE & SIGNATURE MEDIA LLC and cannot
Add to this our regular repertoire of the latest news, topical features, profiles, business analyses, commentaries, professional contributions, Opinion-Editorials, and useful content all of which are well encapsulated and meticulously curated to make for stimulating reading!
Happy reading!
Malcolm Dias Editor06GWC Group
An expansive report and an exclusive interview with the Group CEO.
16UD Trucks
In high gear—exclusive interview with Mourad Hedna, President, UD Trucks, MEENA.
22Hellmann-ATS
A new partnership has been forged between Hellmann and ATS.
25Ehrhardt Partner Group (EPG) Two case studies highlighted.
30Maersk Group
The world’s biggest Shipping Company maintains a high profile.
32FAMCO-DHL Strategic Partnership.
33Oxford Business Group
Analyzing the latest Automotive Report.
34Paradigm 3D Printing
Expanding the new paradigm in 3D Printing.
37ACME Intralog
New breakthroughs in Automation.
38University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)
A peek into the world of Academia-Industry interface.
42Logistics & Supply Chain-Headhunting
A new landscape for recruiting industry professionals.
44Kuehne+Nagel
Appointed official LSP for COP 28.
46 News Up to date news of the Global Suppy Chain industry
GWC benefits from a global freight network and massive logistics infrastructure spanning over 4 million square meters. GWC was the first Regional Supporter and the Official Logistics Provider for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Flag Logistics, a 100%-owned subsidiary of the GWC Group, has expanded its wings and started operating in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain and the UAE. Flag Logistics will be meeting the needs of many industries in the region by providing a wide range of logistics solutions and services. The new business will help GWC expand its reputation as a top logistics provider in the area.
Multiple Award winning GWC, founded in 2004, is the premier and largest Qatari logistics provider with an extensive regional footprint in the MENA region.
With a global freight network of 600+ offices and a solid logistics infrastructure spanning over 4 million sqm, the company is equipped to tackle complex logistical challenges no matter the scale. The company offers world-class logistics, supply chain, and warehousing services to manage sector-wide requirements.
The company’s extensive range of solutions includes and is not limited to freight forwarding, contract logistics, hazmat logistics, project logistics, sports and event logistics, equine logistics, fine art logistics, pharma logistics, records and asset
management, supply chain consulting, transportation management, records management, door-to-door moving, and relocations.
Global Supply Chain conducted a wideranging interview with Ranjeev Menon, the veteran industry professional and longserving Group CEO, GWC, who has been associated with the burgeoning company since 2009. Under his stewardship, the GWC Group has risen from humble beginnings to the powerhouse logistics company it is today, one of the largest logistics services providers not only in Qatar but in the Middle East.
Global Supply Chain (GSC): As one of the largest Logistics Services Providers (LSPs) in Qatar, GWC offers a wide and eclectic
range of services—bring us to current on the extent and scope of your services offerings at the present time?
Ranjeev Menon (RM): The State of Qatar has evolved considerably after the successful hosting of the World Cup 2022 mega event. This indeed has been one of the biggest milestones and accomplishments in the corporate history of the company. As a consequence, the country is experiencing a new dynamic, and as a result there is a new-found recognition of the country’s positioning as a global hub not only for world-class sporting events but also for the speedy developments of the gas and energy production sector, the hospitality and tourism industries, construction and continued infrastructure development among others, including but not limited to the state-of-the-art, brand new Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Hamad Port.
GWC has grown in sync and in step with the increasing demand for advanced logistics services providers. The continuing development and expansion of the famed and prolific North Field (Shaheen) will catapult Qatar as the biggest exporter of gas by 2027.
Our GWC Energy company is now poised to become the preferred and must go to logistics partner of choice. We are leveraging our resources and capabilities to empower our service offerings for this segment.
GWC was the first logistics services provider in Qatar to acquire the HAZMAT license for dealing with hazardous materials and goods—an important industrial vertical; GWC also has all the necessary approvals from regulators, accreditations and professional credentials to enable and reinforce our operations.
GWC is proud to affirm that as the premier provider of wide-ranging logistics services in the State of Qatar, it has a lion’s share of the country’s growing logistics business. The country’s logistics and supply chain business has been growing phenomenally and the nation is now increasingly poised to become a major trading partner and hub in the region.
GSC: The GWC Al Wukair Logistics Park is a premier project for the company; describe the Park and its capabilities?
RM: Like many of its peers in the GCC and in the region, Qatar has been diversifying its economy—weaning away from the traditional hydrocarbons to develop other industrial sectors. The focus and priority towards the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is a case in point.
The MSME segment is the backbone of any economy and accounts for a significant share of any country’s economy. Qatar continues to pay close attention to this community which is seen as an enabler to industrial development and witnessed robust growth in recent times.
Phase II of the Al Wukair Logistics Park located on the outskirts of Doha, (Phase-1 launched in March 2022), is expected to go operational in October 2023. When fully occupied it will be home to over 700 thriving customers. Al Wukair Logistics Park is also conveniently located with seamless access to Port Hamad and Hamad International Airport and other industrial areas in Qatar and its capital Doha.
As a prominent and recognized Logistics Services Provider, GWC is adequately equipped to provide comprehensive and exhaustive capabilities to the MSME sector.
We provide a whole suite of end-to-end services as also the play-and-plug model service offering.
GSC: In 2015, Gulf Warehousing Corporation (GWC) was awarded the US$ 188million contract to develop the Bu Sulba Logistics Hub in South Central Doha amid stiff competition. Bring us to current on developments for this project?
RM: Clearly, GWC had a big and central role in supporting companies that moved in Bu Sulba, which was modelled on the PPP (Public Private Partnership) format.
The 500,000 sqm GWC Bu Sulba Warehousing Park is the consequence of the company’s knowledge of the logistics sector and the Government’s aspiration to support SMEs with immediately operational and flexible warehousing solutions.
GWC offers the hub a full range of supply chain solutions including scalable storage solutions, while clients may make use of our professional consultancy on the best warehousing practices. With hundreds of warehousing units of different specifications optimized for SMEs, a container yard, as well as amenities. GWC is well enabled to provide the high level of service standards expected by clients.
GWC has earned the trust of multinational conglomerates and currently operates more than 380,000m² of specialist infrastructure for the energy sector
RanjeevMenon,
CEO, GWC Group
The GWC Group also has been managing the 510,000sqm Bu Faseela Warehousing Park located in the North Doha district since 2017. The park offers a number of features specifically designed for SMEs, including dry warehousing, air-conditioned warehousing, chilled warehousing, frozen warehousing, and open yard storage. Thanks to GWC, the business community in this area benefits from expertise in logistical support.
GSC: These and other iconic projects constitute a big leap for the company; how do these projects bring the country closer to the realization and alignment, in the realm of logistics, of the Qatar National Vision 2030?
RM: GWC is fully committed to the ambitious and futuristic Qatar Vision 2030 and the four pillars enshrined in the policy document.
The new subsidiary of GWC Group is set to become the preferred choice for energy projects.
GWC Group has reinforced its unwavering commitment to facilitating the growth and development of Qatar’s energy industry by unveiling a new subsidiary that will support increased demand for energy across the globe.
GWC Energy WLL will deliver solutions to clients in the energy sector and set new standards in integrated shipping, logistics and marine services for companies in Qatar, across the GCC and globally. The unveiling of GWC Energy marks a major landmark for the onshore and offshore logistics industry, according to a corporate press communique.
“For two decades, GWC has been diligent in delivering integrated logistics and supply chain solutions for local and international companies. From day one, our focus has been world-class performance, a long-term relationship approach, innovation, ethics and strong human capital,” asserted Sheikh Abdulla Bin Fahad Bin Jassem Bin Jaber Al Thani, Chairman, GWC.
The new subsidiary will support the expansion of GWC as it aims to become the preferred choice for energy projects in the region and globally.
Thanks to first-class health and safety and unwavering reliability, GWC has earned the trust of multinational conglomerates and
currently operates more than 380,000m² of specialist infrastructure for the energy sector in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed industrial cities.
“Our vast infrastructure trained and experienced staff, unwavering pledge to health and safety, and bespoke IT infrastructure allow us to handle a diverse array of integrated solutions both offshore and onshore,” remarked Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC.
GWC Energy’s highly trained professionals already manage the logistics requirements for a stellar list of oil and gas clients in Qatar and across the world. The subsidiary will provide operational excellence and cost-effective solutions.
It will specialize in providing bespoke solutions while handling a diverse array of onshore and offshore operations. Its vast facilities are managed by experts, all knowledgeable about applicable laws, rules and regulations, and operated according to stringent quality, health, safety and environmental standards. GWC Energy will pride itself on the highest professionalism with a mission to deliver world-class energy services, the press statement continued.
GWC Energy is a wholly owned subsidiary of GWC QPSC, Qatar’s top logistics and supply chain services provider, and one of the fastest growing companies in the region.
We are pledged to being the enabler for the industrial and SME/MSME sector with our portfolio of crucial product, equipment and service offerings. We also take our CSR (Corporate Social Responsibilities) mandate very seriously and are devoted to playing our part and our corporate role in decarbonizing and greening the environment.
Currently around 60 percent of our consumables, such as glass and wood for example are recycled and only 40 percent make their way to the landfills. Recycling therefore is a big part of our corporate vision and sustainability policy, thereby reinforcing our emphasis on the circular economy—
refurbishing, recycling and reusing as much as possible to minimize waste.
Other notable initiatives include beach cleanups and active participation in municipality waste disposal programmes, empowerment and education of our workforce. Additionally, we also work in tandem and partner with academia such as the Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Doha to realize the power and reinforcement of the combined tripartite force comprising the Government, Academia and Industry working handin-hand in solving issues that plague the industry and the environment.
We will also unfurl and detail our concrete
steps taken to counter carbonization of environment and address imbalances in the ecological system at our annual GWC Forum to be hosted in November 2023.
GSC: What is the extent of involvement of GWC in the multiple verticals of the logistics in the supply chain continuum?
RM: GWC’s services are comprehensive as they are eclectic. We have offerings in virtually every category—from air, sea, land freight to dry, bulk cargo and the cold, pharma and food supplies chains.
GWC also has a strong imprint in Art and Equestrian logistics. Energy logistics is also an important and significant part of our operations. Training is an important part of this equation, and we empower our staff and provide skillsets and functional capabilities in their respective areas of their portfolios and regimen.
We also place adequate emphasis on safety and efficiency that earns us the trust and appreciation of our customers.
GSC: How healthy is the overall logistics sector in Qatar and what is the current growth potential in view of the sophisticated Free Zones (Manatiq) as also Port Hamad and Hamad International Airport?
RM: The overall logistics and supply chain sector in Qatar is resilient and in growth mode. There is plenty of growth potential for this segment in Qatar. There is no doubt the country has a very sophisticated, modern infrastructure with developed ports, international airport, a superb road and highway network, an emerging GCC Rail link and an extensive grid of Free Zones serving multiple business and industrial communities.
State-owned Railway Company, Qatar Rail, is responsible for rail transport both passenger and freight in the country. Established in 2011, the company is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the entire rail network and systems. When fully operational, it will be linked to the greater GCC Rail Network, thus providing expanded rail coverage in the region.
All these developments position Qatar as a major logistics and supply chain hub in the region.
With a global freight network of 600+ offices and a solid logistics infrastructure spanning over 4 million sqm, GWC is equipped to tackle complex logistical challenges no matter the scale.
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Madhu Vallur will play a key role in driving growth in this area
Qatar’s GWC Group recently appointed Madhu Vallur to spearhead its energy division in a move which reinforces long-term commitment to the Energy Sector, signalling expansion plans.
Vallur, who will be Executive Director, GWC, Energy Logistics Division, will provide strategic
The partnership aims to drive growth and capitalize on emerging market trends
GWC recently signed a teaming agreement with renowned global leader in the maritime industry Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) to form a strategic partnership to support offshore energy services.
The signing took place at LDA’s Paris headquarters and was attended by Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC, and Kamil Beffa, CEO, LDA.
The collaboration marks a significant milestone that paves the way for exciting new opportunities in the maritime sector. Under the terms of the agreement, GWC and LDA will combine their expertise,
resources and networks to jointly pursue ship owning ventures.
The partnership aims to drive growth, capitalize on emerging market trends and deliver exceptional value for customers in Qatar, the Gulf region and beyond.
leadership, setting new standards in integrated shipping, logistics and marine services. He will work closely with stakeholders, including partners, customers, and regulatory agencies, to ensure efficient and sustainable movement of the energy supply chain, the company said in a press statement.
“We are pleased to form this strategic partnership with LDA. Together, we will offer unparalleled efficiencies and fresh perspective to the marine, shipping and logistics industry, ensuring the requirements
of the energy industry are met with the highest international standards,” stressed Menon.
“Together, we will navigate evolving challenges and capitalize on exciting opportunities. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and delivering excellence,” said Beffa.
By pooling their expertise and resources, both GWC and LDA are poised to create a formidable presence in the market, offering customers a comprehensive suite of services and solutions.
GSC: How did GWC fare in H1-2023 and how does it compare with your corresponding 2022 performance? What is your outlook for the remainder of the year 2023 and how do you propose to close this year?
RM: The GWC Group has had a successful H1-2023 and we are very hopeful and buoyant about the remainder of the year but are confident we will close 2023 strong.
GSC: What is your vision for GWC going forward for the short and long terms? Where does GWC go from here?
RM: Despite the headwinds and challenges—global geopolitics, force majeure occurrences has taken place such as the earthquake in Morocco and the floods that ravished Eastern Libya and other parts of the world-to which we pay condolences and wish solace to the families of victims and pray for speedy recovery for these economies, our goal is to be the goto, reliable and dependent logistics services provider of choice.
We want to repose the confidence placed in us by our customers. We have specific and concrete plans—both strategic and tactical, to maintain the growth momentum. We will only get bigger and better with time, as our current and past track record clearly demonstrates.
Company organizes periodic blood donation drives
GWC recently held its annual blood donation drive in mid-September, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mandate.
GWC organises these annual blood donation campaigns to support Qatar’s community and promote the values of social responsibility among its employees, according to a press communique.
The drive that was conducted at the company’s logistics hub in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, in association with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
The campaign attracted many donors who came in voluntarily to support the community and appreciate the gift of life.
GWC’s Group CEO, Ranjeev Menon, expressed his appreciation for the donors and HMC personnel.
“I am extremely proud to witness the spirit of selflessness demonstrated by our team and other donors. Donating blood is a noble cause, and it plays a critical role in saving lives. The blood donation
drive is a key initiative of GWC’s CSR policy and our way of serving the larger community,” he asserted.
“We thank HMC for their efforts in making this drive a success, and for their continued support and innovation in improving the health sector in Qatar,” he added.
GWC has been organising blood donation campaigns for more than a decade now and has seen an uptake in the number of participating donors, thus exemplifying the spirit of giving, the press note concluded.
Blood donation drive is a key initiative of GWC’s CSR policy and our way of serving the larger community
Qatar’s top logistics provider in the State of Qatar, recently announced the successful launch of Phase-2 of GWC Al Wukair Logistics Park, the landmark 1.5mn sqm integrated logistics hub.
Phase-2 comprises more than 500 units, designed and optimized for warehousing, retail and light industrial workshops operations. These units feature highly competitive leasing rates, making them accessible to businesses of all sizes.
“Since its inauguration in early 2022, the GWC Al Wukair Logistics Park has been making waves of success for a multitude of MSMEs. The launch of phase-2 further affirms our continuing quest for growth and contributing to the realization of Qatar National Vision 2030,” stated Sheikh Abdulla Bin Fahad Bin Jassem Bin Jaber Al Thani, Chairman, GWC.
Each unit within the park spans 250sqm, with a generous 220sqm dedicated to operational activities and a 30sqm office and utilities space. Furthermore, the inclusion of parking facilities at each unit ensures convenient access for clients.
All services at the logistics park are powered by GWC, allowing clients access to the company’s end-to-end logistics services and solutions, including customs clearance, transport, racking, supply chain consulting, freight, distribution and more.
These services are immediately operational, with all utilities (water, electricity and fiber-internet), as well as IT infrastructure governed by an on-site data centre that will allow clients to be ready for business when they choose GWC as a service provider.
“With 20 years of experience, our problem-solving team is focused on highquality performance and responsiveness,
something every client at Al Wukair will experience for themselves as they enter their reserved spaces,” stressed Ranjeev Menon, Group CEO, GWC, affirming the company’s commitment to serving the logistics needs of MSMEs.
“As GWC Group continues to expand and evolve, we are proud to have made significant strides in achieving our strategic growth plan, solidifying our position as prominent leaders in the logistics industry.
Our strategic approach, driven by innovative technology and employee development, reinforces our conviction to deliver exceptional solutions and progress with utmost determination.” added Menon.
GWC was awarded the development of Al Wukair Logistics Park by Manateq in December 2019. Under the agreement, GWC is tasked with the construction, operation, and transfer (BOT) of the logistics park. This public-private-partnership entails a 30-year lease tenure and a significant investment value exceeding QAR 1.5bn (US$ 412mn).
UD Trucks is well-positioned to address the challenges and opportunities facing the commercial vehicle industry, affirmed the top pan regional official of the prominent industry brand in a recent exclusive interview with Global Supply Chain. The company has a strong track record of innovation and is committed to developing new products and technologies that meet the needs of our customers in this present time, he asserted.
UDTrucks is the leading, renowned Japanese commercial vehicle solutions provider, active in more than 60 countries on all continents. The company has a long history of innovation and has been a pioneer in the development of safe, reliable, and fuel-efficient trucks.
In the Middle East and North Africa (MEENA) region, UD Trucks has a strong presence in key markets such as Saudi
Arabia, UAE and Kuwait. We offer a wide range of trucks to meet the needs of different customers, including heavy-duty trucks, medium-duty trucks, and light-duty trucks.
Commitment to providing our customers with the best workable solutions and services is the company’s corporate credo. The company has a network of over 200 dealers and service centres in the MEENA region, which are staffed by highly trained
technicians.
The company is also very committed to adopting a strategy that prioritises sustainability, working to reduce the environmental impact of our trucks through the use of new technologies, revealed Mourad Hedna, President, UD Trucks, MEENA, the long-serving supremo of the trucking brand in the region, in a recent wide-ranging one-on-one interview with Global Supply Chain.
Global Supply Chain (GSC): Briefly trace the origins of UD Trucks in the UAE and bring us to current on how you are now positioned in the country and the Middle East, East, and North Africa region?
Mourad Hedna (MH): We have been present in the UAE and the MEENA region for more than six decades during which time we have built a reputation as a company that is a leading commercial vehicle brand in the region, offering a wide range of trucks and services to meet the needs of different customers.
Our company’s long history and reputation for Japanese quality, wide range of trucks and servicaes, and commitment to customer satisfaction have all contributed to its success in the region. We are also wellpositioned to continue to grow the business right across the region for many years to come.
GSC: How significant is the UAE for UD Trucks and is the country a top export destination for the brand?
MH: The UAE is a pivotal market for our operations, where we have not only achieved impressive sales figures but also
actively contributed a substantial portion to the overall regional sales. This underscores our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of our customers in the UAE and highlights the strategic significance of this market in our global business strategy.
The company has a strong presence in the country, with regional headquarters in Dubai and a network of business partners that serve all parts of the country. These strong local partners – Al Masaood in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, and United Diesel across Dubai and the Northern Emirates - are committed to providing customers with the best possible service and support.
In the UAE, key sectors for UD Trucks include construction, logistics, and transportation. Our trucks are used in these industries to haul heavy loads and transport goods. UD Trucks is also a significant player in the UAE waste management market. Our trucks are used by a number of key waste management companies to collect and transport waste.
GSC: What are UD Trucks’ USPs (unique sales propositions) and distinctive traits that set you apart from your competitors
MH: We are renowned for the quality, reliability, fuel efficiency, durability, comfort, and safety of our vehicles. We invest heavily in research and development to improve the performance and safety of our trucks and use high-quality materials and components to ensure that they can withstand the harsh conditions of the Middle East.
Our commitment to quality and reliability is evident in our long history of building trucks that are built to last. The company’s trucks are known for their fuel efficiency, which helps customers to reduce their operating costs.
Our trucks are also designed to be durable and comfortable, making them ideal for long journeys in challenging conditions. Furthermore, our commitment to ensuring customer support on the ground is paramount.
We maintain dedicated engineering teams and robust research and development teams that are readily available to address any technical or operational concerns. In addition to our reliable products, our trucks are equipped
with a wide range of safety features to protect drivers and passengers in the event of an accident, ensuring our customers’ peace of mind throughout their journeys.
GSC: Which are the top three countries in sales terms for UD Trucks in the region?
MH: The top 3 markets are Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait. These markets have a growing demand for commercial vehicles, and UD Trucks has a strong presence in these markets.
GSC: How have you performed to date in the UAE in 2023 and how does it compare with your 2022 performance?
MH: In 2023, we have experienced a substantial increase in sales in the UAE, which can be attributed to several key factors.
The UAE’s economy has been diversifying
rapidly since the end of the pandemic, with a particular emphasis on sectors such as logistics, construction, and transportation. This economic growth has led to an increased need for commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses.
GSC: How would you characterize the partnership between UD Trucks and your national dealers across the region?
MH: We are exceptionally proud of the relationships we have with our partners and the standard of work they deliver. They can be characterized far more as a collaborative partnership and are essential for our success in the region We work together to provide customers with the best possible products and services. Our partners are committed to providing customers with a positive experience, and we
provide them with the training and resources to serve our customers.
GSC: What is your range of commercial vehicles, and which are among your top selling models in the region?
MH: In the region, we provide a diverse range of commercial vehicle solutions by offering both the Quester and the Croner. These two exceptional product lines cater to a wide spectrum of customer needs.
The Quester is well-suited for a wide range of applications, including longhaul transportation, construction, and distribution. Taking the UAE as an example, its diverse economy, which includes a robust construction sector and a need for efficient logistics and transportation, aligns perfectly with the Quester’s capabilities.
The Croner is tailored for medium-duty
applications, making it an ideal choice for urban distribution and delivery services. With the growth of e-commerce and last-mile delivery services in markets like the UAE, there is a heightened demand for medium-duty trucks like the Croner.
GSC: What are your expansion plans for the region, and do you have or plan to set up a manufacturing plant in the region in the foreseeable future?
MH: We believe that the region has a lot of potential for growth, and we are excited to be a part of it. We have been steadily expanding our footprint across the region in recent years, as the company is poised to further extend its presence, emphasizing a commitment to ethical and sustainable growth. To realize this objective, we are actively engaged in several strategic initiatives.
These initiatives encompass the expansion of our dealer network, with a focus on establishing new dealerships in pivotal regional markets. Simultaneously, we are channelling investments into research and development to innovate new products and services, tailored to the specific requirements of customers in the region. In line with our growth strategy, we are ramping up our marketing and sales efforts to effectively reach and serve a broader customer base.
GSC: What opportunities and challenges (competition) for the present and future do you foresee going forward?
MH: The escalating cost of fuel constitutes a substantial financial burden for operators within the commercial vehicle industry. This challenge is further compounded by a worldwide surge in the demand for emission-free vehicles. Governments across the globe are enacting increasingly stringent emission regulations, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental conservation.
This has resulted in a pronounced need for cleaner, more environmentally friendly vehicle options, pressing commercial vehicle manufacturers to explore and invest in innovative technologies and solutions that meet these evolving regulatory standards.
The growth of e-commerce is fuelling demand for more delivery vehicles,
presenting an opportunity for commercial vehicle manufacturers to develop specialized vehicles tailored for e-commerce delivery, in conjunction with the potential for revolutionary modern technologies shaping the future of the commercial vehicle industry.
UD Trucks is well-positioned to address the challenges and opportunities facing the commercial vehicle industry. We have a strong track record of innovation and are committed to developing new products and technologies that meet the needs of our customers.
GSC: What are your brand strengths and how are you leveraging these to gain a larger market share?
MH: Our strengths come from our long history and experience, a strong focus on quality, a wide range of products, and a global presence.
We are always on the hunt for continuous innovation, global expansion, strategic partnerships, and customer-centricity. The company invests heavily in research and development to develop new and innovative trucks, expands its global presence to reach new markets, partners with other companies to offer integrated solutions, and builds relationships with customers to understand their needs and deliver trucks that meet those needs.
We aim to distinguish ourselves by an unwavering focus on minimising downtime in trucks, a critical aspect of operational efficiency. We provide an array of products and services expressly designed to keep customers’ trucks on the road, functioning seamlessly.
This includes a comprehensive preventive maintenance program that diligently identifies and addresses potential issues before they escalate. Additionally, UD Trucks supplies top-tier parts and fluids that serve to prolong the lifespan of crucial truck components, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to reliability and longevity.
GSC: Do you customize vehicles for specific clientele?
MH: We have a broad range of modern product lines to better serve our business partners. We develop tailor made solutions as per the requirements of the applications.
Versatility is in the DNA of our line-up. We work closely with customers to understand their specific needs and requirements. The company then customizes the truck to meet those needs.
GSC: UD Trucks is part of the Volvo Group; describe your association and affiliation?
MH: UD Trucks was formerly a subsidiary of the Volvo Group but is now part of Isuzu Motors Limited. This transition occurred when Isuzu Motors acquired UD Trucks from the Volvo Group in January 2021.
This facilitates resource and expertise sharing, empowering us with access to Isuzu Motors’ extensive global reach and capabilities. This includes access to innovative technologies, manufacturing prowess, and broader marketing channels. The financial strength of Isuzu Motors provides UD Trucks with robust backing for investments in new products, technologies, and market initiatives.
Additionally, UD Trucks gains the advantage of Isuzu Motors’ well-established presence in international markets, opening doors to new customer bases and geographic expansion. Leveraging Isuzu’s rich history of innovative and reliable commercial vehicle development allows UD Trucks to enhance its product offerings.
GSC: What is the vision for UD Trucks in the UAE going forward for the short and longterm futures?
MH: Our foremost objective is to maintain our position as the benchmark for customer satisfaction. To achieve this, we have implemented a comprehensive framework that prioritizes customers at the heart of every decision-making process.
This means not only delivering exceptional products and services but also actively seeking and valuing customer feedback, anticipating their needs, and continuously improving our offerings to exceed their expectations. Our commitment to putting customers first extends throughout every facet of our organization, always ensuring a customer-centric approach.
Building strong partnerships with local stakeholders is another key aspect of our long-term strategy, strengthening our position in the UAE market and
addressing region-specific challenges and opportunities.
GSC: Tell us about your CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) activities particularly in the light of the growing public concern about sustainability and vehicle pollution and its impact on the environment?
MH: We are firmly committed to the ‘Better Life’ initiative, which encompasses a dedicated pledge to sustainability and the reduction of vehicle pollution. To uphold this commitment, we are actively engaged in a range of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) endeavours.
These initiatives encompass the pursuit of cutting-edge research and development in environmentally conscious technologies, aimed at curbing the environmental footprint of our trucks. For instance, we
are at the forefront of developing electric vehicles and more fuel-efficient engines, signalling a strong dedication to sustainable transport solutions.
The ‘Better Life’ initiative is important to us because it aligns with the company’s values of innovation, collaboration, and customer focus. We believe that making our trucks more sustainable, can help our customers reduce their environmental impact, save money on fuel costs, and improve their bottom line.
One of our CSR initiatives is the ‘Plastic Pledge’ which kicked off in June and is a key focus for us in the MEENA region. The ‘Plastic Pledge’ is a global initiative that aims to reduce plastic pollution. In collaboration with that, we were one of the sponsors for the Arabian Ocean Rowing Team, which sailed the Atlantic Ocean, also stressing the fact that plastic pollution is a major
environmental issue for sea creatures.
UD Trucks has pledged to make its offices plastic-free by 2025. The company has already taken steps to achieve this goal, such as eliminating single-use plastics from its offices and replacing plastic water bottles with reusable ones.
Furthermore, we are currently building up a Waste Management competition that we will be hosting. In collaboration with a number of schools in the UAE, we will give the chance to students to use their imagination and creativity to build a waste management truck.
The project aims to inspire and educate the next generation about sustainability, technology, and innovation in the commercial vehicle industry, fostering solutions for the global waste management challenge and contributing to a more sustainable future.
With the joint venture, Hellmann and ATS respond to the fragmented FTL trucking sector
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, together with ATS in the UAE, has recently established a specialized joint venture HellmannATS Road Solutions at an event ceremony held in Dubai.
In a unique, powerful partnership Hellmann expands its road logistics business in the Middle East enhancing the range of services that already includes the segments airfreight, seafreight, customs brokerage and contract logistics since entering the market in 1999, according to a press communique. With ATS, Hellmann joins forces with a major road transportation provider in the UAE market, gaining access to an impressive fleet of more than 600 vehicles operating in the region. Under the terms of the joint venture, HellmannATS Road Solutions will exclusively handle all road transport operations for Hellmann in the UAE. The joint venture will be managed by Mutasim Abuhmaidan, who comes with 20 years of Middle East road freight experience, having led and developed regional road freight departments with global and regional freight forwarders.
With the joint venture, Hellmann and ATS respond to the fragmented FTL (Full Truck Load) trucking sector in UAE, providing not just a seamless end-to-end road transport
experience, but also enhancing supply chain visibility for local and international customers.
The partnership combines the decades of cross-border expertise of a leading global freight forwarder with the modern fleet capabilities of one of the largest transport companies in the UAE. On this basis, the
joint venture will offer a comprehensive technology-based range of B2B logistics solutions to meet the evolving needs of global trade.
HellmannATS aims to significantly increase its market share in the road transport sector in the Middle East over the coming years, with a particular focus on FTL business for global and regional customers.
“As globalization continues to shape the future of international trade, the joint venture stands as an unwavering partner, delivering tailor-made solutions and revolutionizing the way B2B logistics are managed,” affirmed Madhav Kurup, Regional CEO IMEA, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.
“As Hellmann, we are pursuing ambitious solutions in all product areas in the UAE and greater Middle East to support our customers with the strongest all-round solutions. In this context, the establishment of the joint venture with ATS is an important milestone in the expansion of our road network across the region,” he continued.
With ATS, Hellmann joins forces with a major road transportation provider in the UAE market, gaining access to an impressive fleet of more than 600 vehicles.
With its adoption of the TMS, Falcon Pack is taking advantage of EPG’s much-admired suite approach to supply chain software solutions. The EPG ONE Supply Chain Execution Suite comprises bespoke applications for each branch of the supply chain journey, from Gartner Magic Quadrant-recognized storage and fulfillment (WMS) to transport and distribution (TMS).
Key business drivers within the TMS are routing optimization and scheduling, provided by EPG’s Greenplan application, winner of the prestigious Best Product award at LogiMAT 2023. Dozens of Falcon Pack transport vehicles, from small vans to truck-trailer combinations, are to be implemented with the software.
The digitization of transport execution processes will help Falcon Pack to improve speed, accuracy and efficiencies in its fast-growing ecommerce operations in Dubai. The state-of-the-art technology also enables the packaging experts to introduce same-day delivery to customers, alongside enhanced documentation control and shipment monitoring via an easy-to-use intuitive interface.
“Investing in EPG’s TMS was an easy decision for us to make. We have enjoyed a productive relationship with EPG’s expert engineers and on-the-spot field teams since we installed LFS five years ago,” commented Syed Ehtisham, Executive Director IT, Falcon Pack.
“We have great trust in their portfolio, and we expect the TMS to provide us with valuable savings in terms of both time and money as well as clear transparency of our day-to-day operations and, consequently, even better relationships with customers. It is also a bonus for our hard-working staff that the system they have supplied us is so easy to get used to,” he continued.
Niels Meinken, EPG Logistics Consultant, affirmed he is delighted with Falcon Pack’s decision to invest once more in EPG’s product expertise. “Our suite approach means that our customers can source all of their supply chain software needs from
Supply chain software leader EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group) has cemented its already strong partnership with Dubai-based Falcon Pack, as the disposable food packaging specialist is to implement EPG’s Transportation Management System (TMS). The two companies have forged strong bonds since Falcon Pack’s introduction of EPG’s LFS Warehouse Management System (WMS) in 2018.
a single source, which results in smoother transitions and fewer pinch points, as well as a single contact,” he asserted.
“At the moment we are fully focused on implementing our TMS with them, and we look forward to expanding our relationship with Falcon Pack still further in the future,” he further added.
EPG is a leading international provider for a comprehensive Supply Chain Execution Suite (EPG ONE™) and employs 900 people
at 23 locations around the world. The company group provides its more than 1,600 customers with WMS, WCS, WFM, TMS and voice solutions to optimize logistics processes – from manual to fully automated logistics environments.
EPG solutions cover the entire supply chain: From warehouse and road to ground and cargo handling solutions at airports. Logistics consulting, cloud services, managed services and logistics training courses at the company’s own academy round out the comprehensive list of solutions from EPG.
CASE STUDY:
DHL’s ‘Packstation’ network enjoyed huge productivity gains after the facilities management team revolutionized dispatch operations and technician planning schedules with the aid of Greenplan.
E-commerce is about speed, efficiency and reliability, which means every part of the chain, without exception, needs to be completely rock-solid. If a single link in the chain breaks, the impact on the process, and more importantly on customers, can be hugely damaging to the company’s reputation, not to mention that customer’s future loyalty.
German parcel giant Deutsche Post DHL offers a nationwide network of unmanned locker sites, known as ‘Packstations’, where customers can both send and receive parcels conveniently by following simple instructions.
There are currently over 12,500 Packstation sites, and the success of the system means that the number continues to grow. 3,000 were added in 2022 alone, with 16,000 Packstations expected to be available in the medium term.
Given such ambitious growth,
Packstations need to offer a reliable, functioning experience for customers.
DPDHL Facility Management Deutschland GmbH (FMD), the facilities management arm of the wider DPDHL group, is responsible for the maintenance and servicing of the Packstation network.
It needs to ensure all matters are handled quickly and efficiently, using its nationwide team of about 100 technicians, split into four German regions.
In 2022, over 112,000 tickets were issued. Typical tasks include replacing print labelling rolls, repairing faulty locks and fixing damaged doors.
In 2020, FMD managers wanted to find a solution to improve their dispatch operations as part of a wider drive towards greater transparency and efficiency. Tasks were complex and planning required substantial manual input, over 80 dispatchers organized the planning of schedules and appointments for the technicians.
Once out on the road, the technicians managed their own routes and schedules, without central oversight. This decentralized system led to inefficient use of technicians’ working hours, with some perhaps spending more time travelling than actually present at the increasing number of Packstation sites.
This had an obvious impact on their productivity and on managerial supervision of their performance, as managers did not have a fully transparent grasp of their technicians’ whereabouts, or the time required for each specific task. “We needed to create a much more precise, visible and accountable system,” explained FMD Contract Manager Andreas Kassner.
The answer was Greenplan, a holistic tour planning software that both digitalizes and optimizes the dispatcher role. Field service efficiency measurably improves, because the system selects the best tour route and starting time as well as the best order of stops to suit both local traffic restrictions and overall mileage costs.
Order fulfillment rate rises because each
• To create a more transparent, accountable work process for Packstation technical engineers
• To spot and harness greater efficiencies while the network pursues ambitious growth targets
• Previous dispatch and schedule planning over-reliant on significant manual resources
• Tour planning software combining workforce management and route planning
• Cuts needless driving time
• Ensures compliance with agreed working hours
• Drives optimization by working across separate route district boundaries where appropriate
• Enables more precise planning and timing of ‘jobs’ and tasks
• Technician site visits increased from three to seven per day
• Clear understanding of timing expectations per task leading to more productive effective service times (+80%)
• Business well positioned to manage service requirements from expected sharp growth in sites and units
technician’s compliance with work time regulations is externally visible, while the manual dispatch resources can be freed up to serve other parts of the business. Greenplan is also able to plan each day ahead more efficiently because it can oversee all jobs within a longer time frame and can break them down most appropriately to suit specific tours.
Originally founded within DHL as part of a collaboration with the worldrenowned Mathematics Institute at Bonn University, Greenplan started working with FMD in summer 2021 to gain a deeper understanding of their precise requirements. This led to a pilot in the Hamburg region kicking off in the autumn of that year.
Effective service times for Packstation saw a huge upward shift of 80%, and a similar increase in the number of fulfillments per technician (from three to five per day initially), leading FMD to approve a go-live in two out of five regions in summer 2022. Further successes ensued, with the nationwide go-live implemented in March 2023.
“The transparency provided by Greenplan has provided us with precise learnings in terms of case and job times,” reported Marcel Hardenack, FMD Product Manager. “We now have a very clear idea of the specific length of time it should take to replace a label roll, for instance, and Greenplan will build that
precision into the number of jobs allocated for the day,” he added.
This precision is one reason why technician ‘job’ visits are now up to seven per day, from a lowly three per day under the manual scheme. Schedule planning is also tighter and more up to date. “Cases can be reported up to 8pm in the evening on any given day,” explained Hardenack.
“Greenplan then prepares the schedules overnight according to that data, ready for the technician to start work at 7am or 8am, depending on their agreed hours,” he further stated. FMD is delighted with the productivity improvements and resource efficiencies provided by Greenplan.
“We are now fine-tuning the business rules and prioritizations with Greenplan experts, who are always available and on-hand to help with queries and issues. This helped us ensure that the IT systems were interacting robustly before the nationwide roll-out,” observed Kassner.
Plans for the future include further expansion into Austria and Switzerland, as well as to other branches of the DHL family.
FMD is the real estate and facilities management arm of DPDHL Group, the home of two globally famous brands, DHL and Deutsche Post. One of FMD’s varied roles is the technical management and servicing of DHL’s ‘Packstation’ network, a parcel collection and dispatch service for businesses and domestic consumers.
APMoller-Maersk (Maersk) and Amazon have finalized a 2023-2024 agreement for the transport of 20,000 FFE containers using green biofuel through Maersk’s ‘ECO Delivery’ ocean product offering.
Maersk estimates this purchase will contribute to a reduction in 44,600 metric tons of CO2e vs standard bunker fuel, roughly equivalent to 50 million pounds of coal burned. This is the fourth consecutive
year that Amazon and Maersk have arranged container shipping using low GHG (Green House Gases) fuel options.
“We’re proud to collaborate with Maersk, a Climate Pledge signatory and leader in shipping logistics, on actionable solutions to decarbonize maritime shipping,” affirmed Adam Baker, Vice President, Global Transportation, Amazon.
“We are excited to have containers in Maersk’s first methanol-enabled feeder vessel and to continue using their biofuel,” he added.
The ECO Delivery biofuel option offers emission reductions that enable immediate and externally verified GHG savings for customers, without compensatory measures like offsetting. This year, Amazon will benefit from a new feature of the ECO Delivery product which will be enabled by also using green methanol in addition to the bio diesel as a second green fuel* in the vessel fleet.
ECO Delivery is using primary data for fuel consumption in the methodology to report
emissions savings with greater precision, inclusive of other greenhouse gases in addition to carbon dioxide. The new model also provides price certainty and stability and is de-linked from the fossil fuel market.
“Amazon’s record of securing sustainable shipping over the years, no matter the business climate, is testament to its contributions to building a better future. We share a common goal with Amazon to reduce our total GHG emissions to net zero by 2040,” observed Narin Phol, President North America, AP Moller-Maersk.
“As cosigners of the Climate pledge, we must constantly create new opportunities to make this a decade of action. Decarbonizing shipping is one significant step that is to be combined with many others to protect our future,” he asserted.
Co-founded by Global Optimism and Amazon, the Climate Pledge is powered by over 400 companies in 38 countries around the globe. The pledge is a commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Signatories agree to measure and report greenhouse gas emissions on a regular basis; implement decarbonization strategies in line with the Paris Agreement, and neutralize any remaining emissions with credible offsets, a press communique concluded.
Both companies have set ambitious Net Zero target and invest extensively in the energy transition in shipping
Shipping giants AP Moller-Maersk and CMA CGM have decided to join forces on several areas relating to decarbonization, in full compliance with all laws and regulations, it was announced in a joint press release.
As frontrunners of the energy transition in shipping, both companies are convinced that joint action will help accelerate the green transition in shipping, learning from each other to go further and faster.
CMA CGM and Maersk have set a net-zero target for their shipping business, have identified scalable solutions that can create impact in this decade, and have already individually
taken ambitious paths on promoting decarbonization for shipping.
Maersk has been ordering vessels that can be operated on bio/e-methanol. CMA CGM has been ordering LNG-propelled vessels, that can also be operated on bio/emethane, the new green equivalent of current LNG, and has also placed orders for vessels that can be operated on bio/e-methanol.
While these two fuel streams appear now as the most mature among existing solutions, both companies expect the future fuel mix of shipping will include other streams that should be developed in the coming years.
The UAE’s leading commercial vehicle and machinery company FAMCO, and DHL Global Forwarding, the leading logistics provider worldwide, recently announced a successful partnership to introduce the Volvo Electric FM Truck in the Middle East as a testament to their commitment to sustainable logistics solutions.
This marks DHL’s deployment of the first Volvo truck in its UAE fleet, after having already deployed over 50 Volvo trucks in its European fleet.
The signing ceremony for this partnership took place at the DHL MEA Innovation Centre. DHL Global Forwarding’s partnership with FAMCO in the UAE reinforced a shared vision of promoting sustainable logistics. This agreement underscores DHL Group and FAMCO’s proactive stance in shaping the industry’s future through innovation and sustainable solutions.
DHL wants to reduce all logistics-related emissions to net-zero by 2050. It is doing this by committing to a set greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target by 2030 in line with the Paris Agreement, investing EUR 7bn to reach it. This investment will be used to increase its use of sustainable aviation fuels, design all new buildings to be carbon neutral, offer a comprehensive portfolio of green products and electrify 60% of its lastmile delivery by 2030.
DHL already has over 30,000 e-vehicles for pickup and delivery in operation. The logistics leader also plans to increase the use of sustainable fuels in air, ocean and road transportation to more than 30% by 2030. Furthermore, DHL will offer sustainable alternatives for 100% of all core products and solutions.
“Our partnership with FAMCO is a testament to our commitment to revolutionizing the logistics industry
through sustainability and innovation. As we progress towards our goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, DHL remains steadfast in delivering smart, sustainable solutions to our customers,” affirmed Tobias Maier, CEO, Saloodo! MEA.
“Witnessing our second Volvo FM Electric Truck in the UAE market and first integrated into DHL’s fleet is truly a momentous occasion. Thanks to world-class partners and global leaders like DHL, FAMCO is proud to accelerate the big shift for the transportation and logistics industry and
lead the electrification for the category,” asserted Ramez Hamdan, Managing Director, FAMCO,
The introduction of the Volvo Electric FM Truck into DHL’s operational framework represents a decisive stride towards fulfilling the company’s long-term sustainability objectives. The partnership with FAMCO is another step towards achieving DHL’s ambitious sustainability targets.
The truck will primarily operate in and around Dubai, serving as a pre-carriage solution towards the UAE’s new multimodular rail initiative, Etihad Rail, a press communique concluded.
Oxford Business Group (OBG) in partnership with General Motors Africa and Middle East, has released ‘Driving Social Change and Governance Progress’, an insightful report exploring how vehicle manufacturers are harnessing technological innovation to address social challenges such as inclusivity and reduce governance risks.
The latest environmental, social and governance (ESG) intelligence report by OBG, provides an in-depth analysis of megatrends shaping the automotive industry and their wider implications for Africa and the Middle East, supported by key data and infographics.
The report also explores how the shift towards connected, autonomous, shared, and electric vehicle production can align with broader global objectives, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
It further examines the positive impact that technological advancements in smart mobility are expected to have on road safety, inclusive of promising proof points evidencing how new innovations will help reduce the number of traffic-related deaths caused by human error.
Additionally, the report also shares insight regarding the role that smart communication systems are set to play in decreasing road congestion, contributing to reducing air pollution, improving economic productivity, and ultimately, quality of life. This includes the development of advanced technologies across integrated public transport systems and ride-sharing initiatives.
Moreover, the report emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity and data protection in smart and automated vehicle systems, noting manufacturers’ responsibility to store and protect information responsibly to prevent data breaches and leakages.
Alongside the extensive industry insights, the report deep dives into the efforts that GM Africa and Middle East invests in putting diversity, inclusion and equity at the heart of its value creation strategy through internal policies and external community engagement initiatives.
This extends to areas such as recruitment, training, and gender balanced leadership, as well as STEM-focused outreach programs and exploring entrepreneurial partnerships, as an example of industry best practice. There is also in-depth analysis of the company’s efforts to make corporate governance a priority, a move reflected in critical areas, such as its human rights policy.
“This report highlights the many ways in which the automotive industry acts as a catalyst for social change through ESGrelated policies, practices, and products – and we are proud to be paving the way alongside regional leadership for social change and governance progress in Africa and the Middle East,” affirmed Jack Uppal, President and Managing Director, General Motors Africa & Middle East.
“We expect the technological advancements taking place in the automotive industry, such as automated technology and smart communication
systems, to play an important role in addressing some of the social challenges faced by communities across Africa and the Middle East, improving people’s quality of life,” asserted Jana Treeck, Managing Director, OBG, Middle East.
“Driving Social Change and Governance Progress” marks the second collaborative analysis undertaken by OBG and GM, following an earlier ESG intelligence report focused on the environment,” she continued.
The ESG Intelligence report is now available to view and download at: https:// oxfordbusinessgroup.com/reports/reportsocial-and-governance-considerations-inthe-automotive-industry-esg-report/
The facility, built with Stratasys technology, certified for aviation flight parts
Paradigm 3D recently opened the doors to its state-of-theart US$ 5.45mn 3D-printing facility in Dubai — the first in the Middle East capable of producing parts in accordance with the aerospace-specific EASA Part 21G regulation.
Outfitted with industry-leading industrial 3D printers from Stratasys, the newly inaugurated Paradigm 3Dfacility will initially focus on producing parts for the region’s aviation industry. The 10,750sqft factory in the Jabel Ali Industrial Area will initially have a production capacity of approximately 2,000 additively manufactured parts per year, with expectations to grow to around 20,000 per year over the next decade.
Typical components produced at the facility will include aircraft interior components for seating, lavatories, electronic cooling ducts, environment control system ducting, wire guides, filter boxes, micro vanes, gaskets, component connectors, air intake manifolds and more, according to a press communique.
Across the world, leading aircraft and cabin interior product manufacturers including Boeing, Collins Aerospace, BAE Systems, Airbus, Diehl Aviation, Safran Seats, use additive manufacturing systems from Stratasys.
“What makes Paradigm 3D’s facility unique is that it is the only 3D printing service provider in the Middle East that will be certified to produce 3D-printed parts for private and commercial aircraft,” affirmed Andreas Langfeld, EMEA President Stratasys.
Paradigm 3D has partnered with Stratasys’ long-time Dubai-based platinum partner, The Design to Manufacturing Company (theD2Mco) and Latvia-based certified aerospace production company, AM Craft which holds an EASA Production Organization Approval (POA). theD2Mco
installed the industrial 3D printers at the new facility and will be responsible for 24-7 uptime and support.
“We are committed to collaborating with Paradigm 3D and Stratasys in supporting the UAE government’s vision for its manufacturing sector through initiatives such as Operation 300bn. The use of Stratasys 3D printers for primary production applications sets this facility apart from others in the region and enables it to confidently serve the needs of customers in highly regulated industries such as aviation,” asserted Kyriakos Papantoniou, Group Executive Director, D2Mco.
“We are aiding Paradigm 3D to enable them to become a one-stopshop for designing, manufacturing and postprocessing certified aircraft components exactly when and where they are needed for immediate installation
on aircraft which will be the state-ofthe-art capability from the certification and technology perspective,” noted Janis Jatnieks, CEO, AM Craft.
Following the anticipated success of the Jabel Ali manufacturing plant with airlines, Paradigm 3D intends to expand its focus into other industry verticals. “We see additive manufacturing as a core growth enabler for manufacturing in the region. The UAE’s appetite for innovation, and the government’s support for projects that leverage industrial 3D printing, means the country is perfectly positioned to be a hub for real digital manufacturing revolution,” observed Mohamed Juma, Co-founder and owner, Paradigm 3D.
“Proving our abilities in the highly regulated aviation sector will serve to validate the numerous advantages of 3D printing. It will enable us to expand into parallel sectors, such as oil & gas and other industrial applications,” he added.
Renault Trucks K range is designed to respond to all customers’ needs
Sijimix, part of FNCT Group (Fujairah National Construction & Transport) leading ready-mix company specialized in supplying quality concrete throughout the eastern United Arab Emirates, has received a new fleet order of 20 Renault Trucks K380 P6x4 concrete mixers.
Sijimix’s new additions equipped with 9 CBM transit mixers, supplied by United Diesel, the Renault Trucks official importer in Dubai & Northern Emirates, will grow their existing Renault Trucks fleet of over 50 units, and are already operational to transport concrete across the United Arab Emirates, according to a press statement.
Robustness, working comfort, payload, pulling power, easy body mounting for
all purposes the Renault Trucks K range is designed to respond to all customers’ needs, with a full steel bumper, exceptional obstacle clearance and the best approach angle on the market. The K Range’s variety of chassis reinforcements allow it to adapt to even the toughest conditions.
“Renault Trucks, having been our choice of supplier for years, is brought upon by their solid quality of products. They earned our trust with their rationalized financial costs and sustained rapport in client care,” asserted Mahmoud Attourah, CEO, FNCT Group.
FNCT is committed to achieving the most practical, highest professional standard and
best engineering quality for all engineering works, which require reliable and efficient trucks such as the Renault Trucks K Range.
“We are honored to once again be chosen by our esteemed customer FNCT as their preferred partner and to supply Renault Trucks. This repetitive order is a testament to the trust they have in United Diesel and the Renault Trucks brand,” affirmed David Sawiras, General Manager, United Diesel, part of the Al Rostamani Group.
“Renault Trucks K range is proven to be the most efficient and robust truck in the toughest conditions. We are committed to our customers’ success by providing complete tailor-made transport solutions,” noted Mohamed Adly, Sales Manager, Renault Trucks Middle East.
PalVac cranes in combination with PalVac Hygienic Vacuum Tube lifters ensure ergonomically correct handling
To meet the hygienic needs of food, pharmaceutical, biotech and other industries in the region, Acme Intralog has introduced the vacuum handling system ‘PalVac Sprint Hygienic’ from German manufacturer Schmalz.
The innovative vacuum handling system from Schmalz, represented in the UAE by Acme Intralog, moves heavy loads in clean rooms and hygienic areas, helping professionals with the handling of shrink-wrapped goods such as bags, drums and jugs. The intuitive and ergonomic operation makes the PalVac the ideal helper for depalletizing, machine loading and many other lifting tasks.
The ergonomic design, use of high-quality components and materials, and the surface finish of the systems reduce the risk of contamination and at the same time allow the systems to be cleaned quickly and easily.
“Whether in clean rooms in pharmaceutical production or in hygienic areas in food processing, PalVac cranes in combination with PalVac Hygienic vacuum tube lifters ensure ergonomically correct handling and efficient material flow. They support fatigue-free handling,” affirmed Navin Narayan, CEO, Acme Intralog.
The handling solution consists of a vacuum tube lifter and a crane. Tri-Clover connections link the lifting unit, control panel and gripper. The gripper seals are
made of FDA-compliant silicone suitable for direct use on food products. The HEPA filter integrated into the tube lifter protects the inside of the lifting tube from contamination.
A differential pressure indicator provides information on the degree of contamination of the filter elements, so that a change can take place at the right time. An electrical blower generates the vacuum, which moves loads of up to 50 kilograms. Individually matched suction cups are suitable for different workpieces. The operator handle with bow-shaped grip allows the load to be lifted, lowered and released.
PalVac stainless-steel jib cranes provide the necessary radius of action for the PalVac tube lifter. Also made of stainless steel and optimized for hygiene, they are perfect for use in all areas where cleanliness is essential. The diamond-shaped crane section reduces horizontal areas and simplifies cleaning of the crane.
The cranes can be individually configured for different applications and allow high working speeds and positioning accuracy. The crane column is suitable for floor or
ceiling mounting, and the slewing bearing enables movements of 220 degrees. Employees can adjust the responsiveness of the crane via an adjustment screw. Depending on the application, the PalVac crane operates with a conventional or an articulated-arm jib.
Acme is the sole distributor of Schmalz products in the Middle East. In 2020, Acme celebrated 45 years of supporting the logistics and supply chain industry in the Middle East. The company was established in Dubai in 1975 with the vision of supporting the needs of the local logistics industry with manual shelving and racking solutions.
Currently, Acme’s experienced solutions team along with global market leading partners can deliver automation solutions that help their regional customers radically optimise their manufacturing and supply chain process.
With over 100 employees, Acme’s Jebel Ali facility also houses their R&D facility where they develop a wide variety of innovative automation solutions that have been tailored to the regional market, a press communique concluded.
There is a new paradigm that is taking the business world by storm. The nexus between academia and business has never been so relevant as it is today. Today we are witnessing increasing involvement and a new, unprecedent AcademiaIndustry partnership never seen before.
The Academia-Corporate Interface has taken on a new direction and when it comes to the demand of professionals in the market, institutions with industry knowledge have an edge compared to others.
Today, the definition of a good academic institution is largely dependent on its ability to offer industry interface to its students that helps them enhance their practical knowledge and make them ready for the corporate world.
To this end, Global Supply Chain recently interviewed Mary Gosha, Careers & Alumni Manager, Student Engagement and Development Office, University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD). In this wideranging exclusive, Gosha spoke on a range of issues related to UOWD, her professional mandate and issues related to the academia-work place interface.
Global Supply Chain: Give us the one-minute spiel on the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)—its mission statement, profile, student numbers and teaching faculties?
Mary Gosha (MG): Established in 1993, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) is the first international Australian university in the UAE and is part of a global brand that has campuses in Australia, Hong Kong and Malaysia.
Currently, we are the education gateway of choice for over 3,500 students representing more than 110 nationalities distributed across our multiple faculties including Business, Engineering, Information Sciences and Health & Medicine.
GSC: As one of the oldest Universities in the UAE (established 1993), how significant is the Dubai campus for UOWD? How have you performed in the past three decades?
The education gateway of choice for 3,500+ students, 110+ nationalities distributed across multiple faculties including Business, Engineering, Information Sciences and Health & Medicine.
Mary Gosha, Careers & Alumni Manager, Student Engagement and Development Office, University of Wollongong, Dubai
MG: Since its inception in 1993, the Dubai campus has been pivotal for UOW. Over the past thirty years, we have fortified our presence, nurturing graduates who have made significant contributions across various global sectors. Our performance, marked by growth and academic excellence, mirrors the vibrancy and ambition of the city itself.
GSC: Briefly, make the case for UOWD as a go-to, covet institution of choice for students?
MG: UOWD stands out due to its blend of Australian education excellence and local relevance, ensuring students are industry ready upon graduation. Our diverse student body, state-of-the-art facilities and innovative programmes position us as a top choice for those seeking global perspectives within a local setting.
GSC: Spell out your portfolio and mandate in your current position?
MG: As the Careers & Alumni Manager, I oversee the development and fostering of relationships between students, alumni and potential industry partners. My mandate includes facilitating career opportunities, offering skills development programs and ensuring our students and graduates stay connected and supported in their professional journey.
GSC: What are your current academic offerings for undergraduate, graduate and
post-graduate and doctoral studies?
MG: At the undergraduate level, we offer programs ranging from Business Administration to Computer Science. For students keen on the globalized business world, our Supply Chain Management specialization under the Faculty of Business offers a comprehensive dive into logistics, procurement and integrated operations.
Our graduate courses explore specialized fields including International Business, Engineering Management and advanced Supply Chain Management, which equips students with strategies to optimize business operations.
GSC: What do you enjoy most about your work?
MG: The most fulfilling aspect of my role is witnessing our students’ transformation into accomplished professionals. Every successful placement and every alumni success story reminds me of why I love what I do.
This September marked a milestone as we celebrated our 30th Anniversary and Alumni Awards Ceremony. The pride I felt, looking at the achievements of our alumni over these three decades, was immeasurable.
GSC: Considering that education, knowledge and academia eventually must point to applications in business and industry, what is your take on the interface and convergence of academia and business?
MG: The synergy between educational institutions and the business world is crucial for molding industry ready graduates. At UOWD, our commitment extends beyond traditional academic pursuits; we prioritize instilling practical skills and industry insights. By collaborating with leading industry stakeholders, we enhance our curriculum with practical relevance and provide our students with hands-on experiences that distinguish them in the professional world.
GSC: How does UOWD plan to work closely with the professional world (and the media) to expose students and academics to the business world?
MG: UOWD actively seeks partnerships with industry leaders, hosting workshops, seminars and facilitate student internships. We are also strengthening our ties with media outlets, ensuring our research and achievements receive the coverage they deserve, further bridging the academia business divide.
GSC: How can academic institutions provide the skill sets and foresight to better prepare students for the workforce? MG: Academic institutions should emphasize soft skills like communication, problem solving and teamwork. Integrating real world case studies, encouraging internships and offering skills development programs can provide students with a competitive edge in the job market.
GSC: Does UOWD propose to introduce E-commerce, Logistics & Supply Chain as possible subjects in the foreseeable future?
MG: With the increasing importance of E-commerce, the role of Logistics and Supply Chain has become pivotal in today’s market. Recognizing its significance, UOWD already offers specialized courses in Supply Chain Management. As for other emerging sectors, we are always attentive and responsive, looking to innovate our curriculum in line with industry demands and trends.
There is a new paradigm that is taking the business world by storm. The nexus between academia and business has never been so relevant as it is today. Today we are witnessing increasing involvement and a new, unprecedent Academia-Industry partnership never seen before.
2023 has seen another spike in demand for executive talent across many verticals throughout the supply chain and logistics sectors, equalling any time in the twenty-four years they been in business, explains Kim Winter, Founder and Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group, in this behind-the-scenes, first-person commentary for Global Supply Chain. There are a lot of issues at play currently and as Executive Search specialists commencing operations in Australia 1999 and UAE 2005, staying ahead of them, and making sure their clients have the right human resources in place is the focus of our teams throughout our MEA, EU & APAC core markets, he further affirmed.
The global supply chain the logistics executive employment landscape is currently characterized by significant operational experience and skills shortages as well as an aging workforce.
We are seeing heavy demand for hands on C Level leaders, SVPs, VPs, Regional, Country, Area and Product Managers across the extended Supply Chain especially in Manufacturing, Operations, S&OP, e-commerce, B2B Marketplace, Contract Logistics and entrepreneurial Commercial executives with strong client relationships.
The Pandemic fuelled growth of e-commerce during 2019-2021 resulted in massive demand for specialists with IT, AI, Data Analysis, Cross Border, Compliance and Regulatory experience, across land, maritime and aviation verticals as industry developed advanced digital platforms to efficiently move trillions of dollars of goods around the world for increasingly demanding B2B and B2C customers.
Mike Drogemuller, Director, North America, Logistics Executive Group, echoes this sentiment. Last year the Canadian Government convened an industry task force to help it develop a plan to address the issues holding back the Canadian export industry, which accounts for more than 60 per cent of Canada’s GDP.
The National Supply Chain Task Force tabled its recommendations with the Minister of Transport earlier in the year, and one of the key actions it recommended was to immediately address the nation’s significant transportation supply chain talent shortage.
The transport industry alone is short 25,000 employees, so it’s a big ask. Compounding this situation, according to the Conference Board of Canada, is the logistics sector’s reliance on older workers, with more than 260,000 due to retire in the next 20 years.
As Supply Chains expand in scale and complexity, so too does the demand for hands on professional talent. As specialist
executive recruiters in this space for more than two decades we are seeing a noticeable gap between the demand for talent across the GCC and the supply of qualified, operationally capable candidates.
This gap is particularly evident in specialized roles, such as data analysts, supply chain planners, and logistics coordinators. Thankfully, we have a database and LinkedIn followers of more than 350,000 persons, either working in the logistics and supply chain industries, and we have invested significantly in IT systems including a recently initiated CRM with AI to ensure we identify quality candidates to match our clients’ brief.
Kim Winter is the Founder and Group Managing Director for the Logistics Executive Group. Kim delivers 40 years of executive leadership experience spanning Executive Search & Recruitment, Leadership Development, Executive Coaching, Career Transition & Corporate Advisory across the Supply Chain, Logistics, 3PL, E-commerce, Life Science, Cold Chain, FMCG, Retail, Rail, Maritime, Defence, Aviation, Resources, and Industrial sectors.
Mike Drogemuller is the Senior Executive Search Partner North America for the Logistics Executive Group. A seasoned professional with more than 30 years of expertise in Supply Chain, Logistics, and public policy, Mike has held senior management positions across various corporate domains. He possesses a comprehensive background spanning business development, executive search, human resources, public relations, logistics, supply chain management, and corporate & finance.
However, companies must also help themselves, and the best do. Investing in staff development programs, partnering with educational institutions, and offering competitive compensation packages, including flexible workplace environments where possible, assists retention of key personnel.
Additionally, cross-training, promoting cross functional opportunities, and providing executive coaching internally, as well as partnering with a specialist external executive search company, helps meet talent gaps.
Creating a supportive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being goes a long way in reducing turnover.
Employees need to have a vision for their current and future role in their organisation, Drogemuller adds. Particularly amongst
graduates and other entry level employees, if they can see a career path within an organisation, they are more likely to invest in that organisation. As recruiters, we can help shape that vision, both for the client and the recruit.
Achieving diversity and inclusion in the supply chain and logistics sector remains a challenge. The industry has traditionally been male-dominated, and there is a need for a more diverse workforce to bring different perspectives and ideas to organizations, particularly those with a global footprint.
Organizations should actively promote diversity and inclusion by implementing inclusive hiring practices. Fostering a welcoming workplace culture and partnering with organizations that support underrepresented groups is a good start. We recruit globally, and deal with many different cultures, we have a unique insight into what works, and what does not.
The rapid advancement of technology is transforming supply chain and logistics operations. Automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are integral features of this transformation. Finding individuals with the right technological skills to operate and manage these systems can be a daunting task.
Mike Drogemuller Director, North America, LOGISTICS EXECUTIVE GROUPOne solution is to focus on upskilling their existing workforce to adapt to technological change. It is also important for supply chain organizations to collaborate with techoriented universities and organizations who can help identify and attract tech-savvy talent.
The globalization of supply chains means organizations need to manage a complex web of regulations, trade agreements and customs procedures. Navigating these complexities means organizations need professionals with a deep understanding of global trade, customs compliance, and regulatory affairs.
Companies are increasingly looking for candidates with international experience and expertise in global supply chain management. They are also reaching out to specialist legal and advisory firms as well as their industry associations to help stay informed about changing regulations, as well as advocating for regulatory improvement.
With a massive carbon footprint, the supply chain industry must now factor in sustainability and eco-friendly practices into their business models. Companies are looking for talent with expertise in creating and managing sustainable supply chains and logistics ecosystems and individuals with these skills
The appointment underpins Kuehne+Nagel’s capabilities in expo and events logistics, as well as its commitment to its science-based emission reduction targets and efforts to decarbonise logistics.
(SBTi) and has taken major steps to make low-emission transport solutions available for its customers. Cooperation with customers, carriers, international organisations, and other stakeholders is part of Kuehne+Nagel’s strategy to drive meaningful change.
“Our current focus is on making lowemission fuels more widely available in the market. However, our industry needs to unlock new technologies to have more and better solutions,” asserted Sarah Kreienbühl, Member of the Management Board, Human Resources and ESG, Kuehne+Nagel International AG.
COP28 has appointed Kuehne+Nagel as the official logistics partner at the global 2023 UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai.
To be held at Dubai Expo City from November 30 until December 12, the event is expected to convene over 70,000 accredited visitors to the restricted Blue Zone and 50,000 daily visitors to the public Green Zone, according to a corporate press communique.
At Expo City Dubai, Kuehne+Nagel will be the sole ground handler responsible for steering all logistics activities on-site, like building country pavilions and stages for panel discussions. In addition, the team will support participants in their end-to-end and local logistics needs, from international freight forwarding, customs clearance and warehousing, to venue delivery, all supported by Kuehne+Nagel’s global
network of experts and its portfolio of lowemission solutions.
“We are proud to have been appointed for this important conference. Kuehne+Nagel is well-known in the events and exhibition space in Europe, and this appointment underpins our efforts to further develop this segment in the Middle East – a region with world-class infrastructure to accommodate this industry,” affirmed Damian Raczynski, National Manager UAE and Oman, Kuehne+Nagel.
Kuehne+Nagel’s appointment by COP28 can not only be credited to its logistics expertise, but also to its ambitions to decarbonise the logistics sector. Kuehne+Nagel has committed to the Science-Based Target initiative
“This is a challenge for which all actors across societies and industries need to work together. That is why the yearly Conference of the Parties is so important, alongside other forums and coalitions that bring actors together to address climate change,” she added.
The UAE will host the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) from 30 November to 12 December 2023 at Expo City Dubai, to unite the world towards agreement on bold, practical and ambitious solutions to one of most pressing global challenges of our time, according to a filing on the website of the UAE Embassy in Washington DC.
The report also enunciated the UAE’s decarbonization plan. The UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative is a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, making the Emirates the first Middle East and North Africa (MENA) nation to do so, the report stated.
Renault Trucks introducing the 1st heavy truck
100% electric
Renault Trucks introducing the 1st heavy truck
Renault Trucks introducing the 1st heavy truck 100% electric
100% electric
In support of the UAE’s net-zero ambitions
Renault Trucks Middle East and Al Masaood launched the first 100% electric refuse collector truck in the United Arab Emirates.
In support of the UAE’s net-zero ambitions
Renault Trucks Middle East and Al Masaood launched the first 100% electric refuse collector truck in the United Arab Emirates.
In support of the UAE’s net-zero ambitions
Renault Trucks Middle East and Al Masaood launched the first 100% electric refuse collector truck in the United Arab Emirates.
The first fully electric heavy truck launched in the Middle East.
The first fully electric heavy truck launched in the Middle East.
The first fully electric heavy truck launched in the Middle East.
The Renault Trucks D Wide 26t E-Tech Electric is the ideal vehicle for urban waste collection with low operating costs while maintaining optimal range and payload.
The Renault Trucks D Wide 26t E-Tech Electric is the ideal vehicle for urban waste collection with low operating costs while maintaining optimal range and payload.
Equipped with 23m3 Gorica-Farid electric refuse collector, this 100% electric Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide P6x2 will be operating on Abu Dhabi roads, almost silently with zero tailpipe emissions.
The Renault Trucks D Wide 26t E-Tech Electric is the ideal vehicle for urban waste collection with low operating costs while maintaining optimal range and payload.
Equipped with 23m3 Gorica-Farid electric refuse collector, this 100% electric Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide P6x2 will be operating on Abu Dhabi roads, almost silently with zero tailpipe emissions.
Equipped with 23m3 Gorica-Farid electric refuse collector, this 100% electric Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide P6x2 will be operating on Abu Dhabi roads, almost silently with zero tailpipe emissions.
n Air France-KLM Group and Etihad Airways recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aiming at enhancing their collaboration opportunities across passenger operations, loyalty programmes, talent development, and maintenance.
The signing ceremony took place at the Air France-KLM Group’s headquarters in Paris, France in the presence of Angus Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer, Air France-KLM, and Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer, Etihad Airways.
Through this partnership, and subject to any necessary regulatory approvals, Air France-KLM and Etihad contemplate expanding their codeshare and interline agreements initiated in 2012. As a first step, more than 40 new routes covering destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Australia have been made available for booking.
“This moment marks our shared commitment to providing seamless, premium, customer-centric travel experiences to our shared global customer base,” commented Clarke.
“This MoU builds on our existing
partnership by exploring deeper network enhancements as we offer improved connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Paris and leveraging the extensive AFKLM network to Europe and beyond,” remarked De.
n The Ministry of Economy has announced that Zencargo, a UK-based pioneer in digital freight forwarding, is the latest company to join its NextGenFDI programme.
The company plans to establish operations in the Emirates with a view to integrating into the UAE’s technology, trade and logistics ecosystem and using the country as a platform to expand its operations into Africa and South Asia.
Zencargo’s presence in the UAE is an endorsement of the UAE’s Trade Tech initiative, which was launched in partnership with the World Economic Forum to accelerate the digitalization of international supply chains, enhance customs procedures, improve developing countries’ access to the global trading system and spur a new era of trade growth, according to a press release.
“Zencargo’s decision to open operations in UAE is the latest example of a groundbreaking company taking advantage of our NextGen FDI program, and the UAE’s dynamic business ecosystem, to pursue their next growth stage, which includes the expansion into new markets,” commented
“NextGen FDI and the UAE’s free port strategy are excited to be helping businesses in the region to unlock smarter shipping decisions and connect them with the tools to gain more control over their
supply chains,” remarked Zencargo CoFounder Richard Fattal.
Founded in London in 2017, Zencargo is a freight forwarder that uses proprietary software to provide clients with a comprehensive overview of their supply chains, the press statement concluded.
n Dubai CommerCity, the first and leading free zone dedicated exclusively to digital commerce in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, is a joint venture between the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) and Wasl Properties.
The Zone has recently announced the launch of ‘Logi-Flow’, a move towards integrating block chain technology with the logistics operations of small and medium-sized (SME) companies. This integration aims to lower costs for these companies while enhancing the overall flexibility and efficiency of their logistics, particularly in digital trade.
Logi-Flow, a secure and measurable system, relies on a pay-as-you-go approach tied to transaction volume. It offers roundthe-clock support without incurring IT service and maintenance costs, ensuring transparency throughout the entire order process, from creation to delivery.
“This step addresses challenges that
companies might face across various stages of e-commerce operations, particularly during the initial setup. These challenges involve the costs of establishing a proprietary “block chain” platform, coupled with ongoing operational expenses due to continuous system operations,” commented Abdulrahman Shaheen, Senior Vice President, Property Management and Supply Chain, Dubai CommerCity.
“This platform will significantly contribute to the progress and expansion of the digital commerce sector in the upcoming phase. This is especially significant considering the projection that e-commerce retail sales in the UAE will account for 12.6% of total retail sales by 2026.” He added.
Spanning 2.1mn sqft and developed at a cost of AED 3.2bn (US$ 871mn), Dubai CommerCity aims to assist new and existing digital trade enterprises across the MEASA
n DP World has partnered with the Greater Caspian Association and Integral Group of Companies, and their annual Caspian Week Forum, to host a joint event at the Global Freight Summit 2023 in Dubai.
This event will mark a significant milestone in developing logistics and trade in the Greater Caspian Region (GCR) and demonstrates DP World’s strong commitment to supporting the region’s growth, the global ports operator said in a press communique.
The Caspian Week Forum, a conference dedicated to connecting GCR to the World in the areas of business, economics, education, science and culture, provides an independent platform for stakeholders to explore investment opportunities, discuss regional challenges, and foster collaboration, attracting key global players interested in the potential of the GCR.
The focus of the joint event of Caspian Week 2023 at the Global Freight Summit will be the development of logistics and trade in the Greater Caspian Region. DP World
aims to address the region’s challenges by establishing new logistic corridors, integrating logistics, trading, and financial aspects into one system.
“The Greater Caspian Region holds immense potential, and we believe that by integrating logistics and trade while fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, we can overcome the challenges and unlock growth opportunities
region. It provides modern offices, advanced warehouses, and last-mile delivery services, a press statement concluded.
for all stakeholders involved,” remarked Mike Bhaskaran, COO, Digital Technology, DP World.
“This forum will undoubtedly become an excellent platform for discussing ideas and presenting projects important to the GCR, especially on the creation of integrated trade and logistics smart systems, inviting partners and attracting investments for the implementation of development projects in the region,” commented Murat Seitnepesov, Chairman of the Caspian Week Forum Organising Committee.
n Etihad Cargo will offer customers and partners more belly hold cargo capacity across the carrier’s global network, announcing new routes and increased frequencies from September 2023.
The airline’s winter schedule will introduce 29 weekly passenger flights to new destinations and will have an increase of 90 passenger flights to existing routes, resulting in a total of 119 passenger flights per week.
Etihad Cargo will offer additional cargo capacity to two new European gateways — Copenhagen in Denmark and Düsseldorf in Germany. The airline will also operate four passenger flights per week to Copenhagen. The carrier will also expand flight frequencies to Frankfurt and Lisbon. Additional cargo capacity will also be available Rome, Madrid and Milan.
Etihad Cargo will also strengthen its commitment to the Asian market, introducing additional cargo capacity via new routes and increased
frequencies to Osaka, Beijing, Shanghai, Kozhikode (India), Chennai, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Islamabad, Cairo, Phuket and Colombo.
“Etihad Cargo remains committed to achieving growth, adding depth to the
carrier’s network and remaining the air cargo partner of choice through the continuous evaluation of its network and enhancement of its eight-strong premium product range,” stated Mohammad Al Bulooki, Chief Operating Officer, Etihad Airways.
n FedEx Express (FedEx) recently announced the deployment of its first three electric vehicles (EVs) to its fleet in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable logistics.
The initial phase of this eco-friendly fleet will focus on parcel pickup and delivery operations within high-traffic areas in the UAE. The EVs introduced have zero-tailpipe emissions and, on a full charge, have a delivery capacity of 280 kilometers operational range,according to a press communique.
This extensive range, combined with the EV charging stations installed at FedEx facilities in the UAE, ensure that the vehicles can easily cover a full day’s route, making them an environmentally responsible choice for last-mile delivery solutions.
Earlier this year, the company completed EV trials in the UAE to test the operational effectiveness of EVs on a standard route fully loaded with packages. Introducing EVs in the UAE contributes towards the company’s goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations globally by 2040.
“FedEx is committed to innovating and
leveraging technologies that enable us to enhance the efficiency of our operations, and provide a better and more sustainable service to our customers. This initiative also helps maximize the positive effects of reducing emissions and creating sustainable urban transportation, thereby supporting the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative,” noted Tayssir Awada, VP, FedEx
Express, Planning and Engineering, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa Region.
The company also recently launched a cloud-based carbon emissions reporting tool, FedEx® Sustainability Insights, giving customers in key Middle East and North Africa markets access to historical emissions information on their shipments within the FedEx network.
n ADNOC Logistics and Services (ADNOC L&S) has taken delivery of eight self-propelled jack-up barges (JUBs) through its subsidiary Zakher Marine International (ZMI) Holdings.
With this expansion, the number of JUBs owned and operated by ADNOC L&S has increased from 31 to 39, reinforcing the Company’s status as the owner and operator of one of the largest fleets of JUBs in the GCC region. This expansion comes at a time when JUB charter rates are robust due to high demand for offshore services.
The additional JUBs include the purchase of two newbuild and four second-hand ones, in addition to the chartering of two newbuild JUBs. One of the barges will serve the Iraqi market, marking ADNOC L&S’ entry into a new market and supporting the company’s regional expansion.
“ADNOC L&S is committed to exploring new opportunities for expansion to continue driving value for our shareholders and strengthen our position as the region’s largest integrated logistics provider,” commented Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO, ADNOC L&S.
ADNOC L&S acquired ZMI Holdings in 2022 as part of its strategic value creation and growth program. The acquisition added critical marine support assets to ADNOC L&S’ offshore fleet, extending its regional footprint and creating new opportunities for expansion with an industryrecognized partner, said a press communique.
“With our established presence in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and now Iraq, we are strategically positioned to further expand our operations across Asia and explore new markets,” remarked Ali
n SAP has announced that its BMW iFACTORY in Oxford, United Kingdom, has successfully gone live with SAP S/4HANA, using SAP’s cloud-driven solution architecture for automotive industries.
The MINI Plant in Oxford is the first of BMW Group’s connected factories moving to the digitized cloud architecture over the next few years, it was announced in a press communique.
BMW Group chose SAP S/4HANA and SAP’s supply chain logistics solutions to jointly create the first blueprint for process digitization of automotive plants of the future, establishing a new technology standard that could shape the automotive industry.
The jointly created solutions unite and simplify the intricate simultaneous processes and IT system changes in the areas of parts logistics, finance/controlling and customs. As each upcoming following iFACTORY leverages the RISE with SAP solution, BMW Group expects to benefit from the standardization of logistics processes worldwide on the latest technology innovations, mutual plant support, flexible workforce allocation, and synergy in support and training.
“The Oxford plant is the first plant that will follow a global rollout within the BMW Group. From now on, more plants from the worldwide production network will be added every year until they all speak the same language,” asserted Alexander Buresch, Chief Innovation Officer and Senior Vice President, BMW Group IT.
“The BMW Group and SAP have had a longstanding partnership and collaboration spanning more than 30 years. I’m extremely excited that this is the first time the parts logistics solution has been deployed on a cloud architecture developed together by BMW Group and SAP,” affirmed Thomas Saueressig, Member of the Executive Board of SAP SE responsible for SAP Product Engineering.
n Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading air cargo carrier has launched biweekly freighter flights from Huntsville, USA to Doha, Qatar in conjunction with DSV as part of a strategic partnership, enhancing North America’s connectivity to Europe, Middle East and beyond, effective 7th September 2023.
The route, named by DSV as the ‘Gateway Star’, will see twice weekly Boeing 777 freighters operating from Felipe Ángeles International Airport in Mexico to Huntsville and arriving in Doha via Luxembourg. The freighters from Huntsville will operate twice
weekly, offering 200 tonnes of capacity, according to a press communique.
“We are excited by this new partnership with DSV. This strategic initiative not only expands DSV’s market reach, but also establishes a direct scheduled service from Mexico City to Europe, Middle East and beyond via the strategic hubs of Huntsville, U.S and Luxembourg,” affirmed Elisabeth Oudkerk, SVP Cargo Sales and Network Planning, Qatar Airways Cargo.
“Our partnership with Qatar Airways Cargo signifies a remarkable leap forward. By collaborating with Qatar
Airways Cargo, we not only extend our market presence but also create avenues for seamless access to the Middle East with a keen focus on boosting our oil and gas vertical,” remarked Mads Ravn, Executive Vice President, DSV.
The major exports from Huntsville that will be carried on Qatar Airways Cargo flights are Auto parts for various manufacturers in Europe along with Perishables and Cars from Mexico. With the addition of Huntsville, Qatar Airways Cargo now serves 22 destinations in the Americas with freighter and passenger belly-hold flights, providing a combined weekly cargo capacity of over 5,500 tonnes, the press statement concluded.
n Qatar Airways Cargo has announced a new partnership with Xiamen Airlines, the first Chinese airline to operate passenger non-stop flights from Mainland China to Qatar. The new partnership will allow Qatar Airways Cargo to provide additional belly cargo capacity for customers to and from Mainland China.
Under the cooperation agreement, Xiamen Airlines will launch daily flights between Beijing’s Daxing International Airport (PKX) to Doha’s Hamad International Airport. The flights will commence on 20 October 2023.
In addition to the flights from Beijing, Xiamen Airlines will also launch two weekly flights from Xiamen (XMN), the special economic zone of Fujian Sheng province, to Doha, commencing 31 October 2023.
Xiamen Airlines will connect DOH with PKX (seven times a week) and XMN (two times a week), providing more than 100 tonnes of capacity on board both flights. The new direct services from Beijing to Doha will be operated by a Boeing 787-9 and Xiamen-Doha-Xiamen service will be operated by a Boeing 787-8.
“China has always been a key market for us and our customers. We are delighted to be able to offer our clients even more capacity. We will now serve nine destinations in Mainland China, offering over 2,800 weekly tonnes of cargo capacity. We welcome Xiamen Airlines and look forward to working closely with them,” stressed Elisabeth Oudkerk, SVP Cargo Sales & Network Planning, Qatar Airways Cargo.
“Qatar is a huge hub for air cargo in the
Middle East, and this relationship with Qatar Airways Cargo strengthens Xiamen Airlines’ commitment to air cargo excellence. We look forward to working closely with Qatar Airways,” noted Tong Qianju, Vice President, Xiamen Airlines Cargo.
n Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group, has announced a 62% reduction in marine incidents in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2021, according to a press release.
Following an agreement between AD Ports Group and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in 2020, Abu Dhabi Maritime was established to govern the development of Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector, undertake the role of a regulatory authority, provide maritime services, and enhance the Emirate’s status as a global maritime capital.
One of Abu Dhabi Maritime’s primary responsibilities has been to ensure strict adherence to international safety standards and best practice operating procedures for waterway usage.
Working in close coordination with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and receiving support from local authorities, Abu Dhabi Maritime has played an integral role in disseminating essential information to the maritime community and developing
robust coastal and marine infrastructure.
“By providing easy access to vital information through integrated digital solutions, waterway users became more conscious of the environment in which they operate and recognise their responsibility in
n UAE-based IQ Robotics, the pioneering leader in AI-driven, fully automated logistics solutions, has inked another milestone agreement with Brands For Less Group (BFL Group), the region’s largest off-price retailer.
Marking its fourth collaborative robotics transformation, this multi-million-dirham agreement aims to facilitate BFL Group’s ambitious expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The transformation includes deploying 130 state-of-the-art robots to help facilitate the processing of omnichannel orders, resulting in higher customer satisfaction.
“Following our successful venture in the UAE, we are thrilled to progress upon our groundbreaking partnership with Brands for For Less Group as we embark on an extraordinary journey to establish a Centre of Excellence in Riyadh to cater to the burgeoning e-commerce demand in Saudi Arabia,” stressed Fadi Amoudi, CEO, IQ Robotics.
This new agreement underscores the growing demand in the region for digital transformation in the logistics and supply chain sectors.
“We are excited to partner with IQ Robotics to usher in a new era of retail in Saudi Arabia. With the help of robotics technology, we can create a more efficient, customer-centric, and sustainable retail experience. We believe
contributing to the safe use of Abu Dhabi’s waterways,”commented Dr Salem Khalfan Al Kaabi, Director General of Operational Affairs, DMT.
“Abu Dhabi’s waters are safe for all users, whether commercial or personal, through the use of innovative digital solutions,”remarked Captain Saif Al Mheiri, Managing Director, Abu Dhabi Maritime.
this partnership will help us shape the future of retail in Saudi Arabia and beyond,” noted Ayman Beydoun, Deputy CEO & Group COO, BFL Group.
As a leader in supply chain solutions, IQ Robotics remains at the forefront, ensuring that businesses like BFL Group are exceptionally positioned to capture opportunities in emerging markets, a press communique concluded.
n The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) has announced the winners of the 3rd GPCA Responsible Care Excellence Awards, which took place on the sidelines of the 5th GPCA Responsible Care Conference held in Bahrain.
The awards enjoyed an excellent engagement, attracting 82 entries in six brand new categories covering Performance Metrics (Operational Excellence), Process Safety, Sustainable Environmental Protection, Rising Star Award, Community Awareness, and Responsible Partner.
OQ won in the ‘Performance Metrics (Operational Excellence) Award’ category, while SABIC was announced as the runner up.
SABIC won the ‘Process Safety Award’ for its Process Safety Competency Development Program (PSCDP), and Petro Rabigh came in second for its Tier 3 Loss of Primary Containment (LOPC) Dashboard.
Sadara scooped the ‘Sustainable Environmental Protection Award’ for its Sustainable Energy Waste Heat Recovery project, while QAPCO was selected by the judges as a runner up in this category for its Waste
Reduction and Management Near Zero Liquid Discharge (NZLD) project.
The ‘Community Awareness Award’ was bestowed upon GPIC for its Environment Lectures and Research Program (Community Engagement and Partnerships), while Ma’aden won second place for its Schools of Excellence.
dedicated to GPCA full members, is aimed at encouraging a young employee who has demonstrated exceptional creative performance in EHS&S to enter the Awards and gain recognition.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate all winners, runners-up, as well as everyone who entered the awards for their great work and dedication to driving excellence across environment, health, safety, security, and the environment,” remarked Dr. Abdulwahab Al Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA.
n Etihad Cargo has appointed Giridharan Srinivasan to the role of Area General Manager, Indian Subcontinent.
Based in Bangalore, Srinivasan will report directly to Latha Narayan, Etihad Cargo’s Director East Cargo Commercial–APAC, Australasia and Indian
Fatima Al Abdulghani from QAPCO and Mohammad Mnahi Almutairi from PIC won joint first place in the ‘Rising Star Award’ category. The Rising Star Award, Subcontinent. He will be responsible for establishing new and further developing existing relationships with Etihad Cargo’s customers based in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and the surrounding region, according to a press communique.
Giridharan Srinivasan joins Etihad Cargo with over 17 years of logistics experience, five of which have been within the aviation sector. During his career, he has held leadership positions spanning sales, business development, client relationship management and operations.
“I am confident Giridharan’s knowledge, expertise and passion for delivering world-class solutions will contribute to Etihad Cargo’s ambitious long-term growth plans for the Indian Subcontinent, further cementing the carrier’s position as the air cargo partner of choice for Etihad Cargo’s customers in this region,” remarked Narayan.
“I look forward to working closely with the regional team to find innovative, tailored solutions that fully meet the capacity requirements of Etihad Cargo’s customers and partners,” commented Srinivasan.
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n Tristar’s recently released 11th Consecutive Corporate Annual Report covers major achievements in the domain of ESG (Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance) under the theme ‘Driving Sustainable Logistics’.
The report is compliant with the GHG (Greenhouse Gas Accounting) and GLEC (Global Logistics and Emissions Council) frameworks, in addition to the existing frameworks like Global Reporting Initiative, UN Global Compact, and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Tristar has disclosed its carbon footprint through the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and is a member of the First Movers Coalition (FMC) launched by the US Government and World Economic Forum (WEF) with pledge to purchase products and services that are low or near zero as possible.
Suhail Kamil Kadri, Senior Vice President of Technology and Innovation, Hamad International Airport, MATAR is presenting three exciting innovation challenges this year. The challenges from MATAR are as follows:
The first challenge calls for proposals to develop an indoor navigation way finder to improve accessibility and reduce stress for persons with disabilities.
n The Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council’s flagship program, Qatar Open Innovation (QOI), has recently announced three Innovation Opportunities in collaboration with MATAR.
Through Innovation Opportunities, QRDI Council has partnered with MATAR, the Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management, to drive innovation within Qatar and tackle major asset management challenges. the launch of three innovation challenges aimed at finding groundbreaking solutions to critical issues faced by the aviation and sustainability industries.
Playing a critical role in managing and operating Hamad International Airport
(DOH) since the facility’s inception in 2014, MATAR continues to elevate the aviation industry with its renowned forward plans and investments, winning multiple awards and accolades in the process.
“Here at QRDI Council, our mission is to support the sustainable management of Qatar’s innovation echo systems through research and technological solutions,” stated Haya Al-Ghanim, RDI Program Director, QRDI Council.
“Through our collaboration with QRDI Council, our vision resonates with Qatar’s commitment to progress,” remarked
The second challenge seeks proposals for developing a recommendation system that predicts when HVAC, electrical, electronics, mechanical, and other assets should be replaced.
The third challenge focuses on creating a touchless, paperless, and cashless solution to enhance customer experience while using car parking facilities in public and commercial spaces.
n Abu Dhabi Airports announced the signing of a service level agreement (SLA) with the General Administration of Customs, to reinforce service levels, enhance the passenger journey as well as the customer experience.
The signing of the SLA agreement was recently conducted in the presence of Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General at the General Administration of Customs and Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports.
Mubarak Matar Al Mansoori, Executive Director, Operations Sector, Abu Dhabi Customs, and Sultan Al Dhaheri, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Aviation Security, Abu Dhabi Airports, signed the agreement.
The service level agreement aims to expand areas of collaboration in terms of expediting travel procedures, checking baggage and facilitating the movement of
passengers and cargo across the airports, to help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for Tourism, Trade and Commerce.
n Auto Central, Al Masaood Group’s multibrand auto service and repair centre, has been awarded the prestigious ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 certifications from Bureau Veritas (BV), a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification services.
The ISO certification signifies Auto Central’s commitment to maintaining ambitious standards, implementing robust processes, and prioritizing customer satisfaction, and establishes the company as a trusted and reliable partner in the auto service market.
Covering the aftersales services, parts, and pre-owned vehicles offered by Auto Central, the ISO certifications mark a significant milestone for Auto Central, highlighting its unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards across its operations.
The ISO 9001 certification acknowledges the company’s commitment to quality management systems, ensuring efficient processes, continuous improvement, and exceptional customer satisfaction.
Furthermore, the ISO 14001 certification underscores Auto Central’s dedication to environmental management, demonstrating responsible and sustainable business practices that mitigate the
company’s impact on the environment. This certification reinforces Auto Central’s pledge to uphold environmentally friendly approaches throughout its operations.
The ISO 45001 certification focuses on Auto Central’s commitment to occupational health and safety management. This accolade demonstrates the company’s dedication to providing a safe and secure working environment for its employees, suppliers, and visitors, reflecting its utmost priority
“These certifications showcase our dedication to maintaining robust processes,
upholding the highest standards of quality, and prioritizing the well-being of our team and the environment. We are honoured to be recognized for our commitment to these core principles,” remarked Jens Mauersberger, General Manager, Auto Central.
With a wide network covering Abu Dhabi, the Western Region, and Dubai, Auto Central is known for its expertise in the local automotive sector and aims to fulfil customer needs for quality service and pre-owned cars that have undergone up to 190-point inspections and reconditioning processes.
n AP Moller-Maersk (Maersk) and Amazon have finalized a 2023-2024 agreement for the transport of 20,000 FFE containers using green biofuel through Maersk’s ‘ECO Delivery’ ocean product offering.
Maersk estimates this purchase will contribute to a reduction in 44,600 metric tons of CO2e vs standard bunker fuel, roughly equivalent to 50 million pounds of coal burned. This is the fourth consecutive year that Amazon and Maersk have arranged container shipping using low GHG (Green House Gases) fuel options.
“We’re proud to collaborate with Maersk, a Climate Pledge signatory and leader in shipping logistics, on actionable solutions to decarbonize maritime
shipping,” affirmed Adam Baker, Vice President, Global Transportation, Amazon.
“We are excited to have containers in Maersk’s first methanol-enabled feeder vessel and to continue using their biofuel,” he added.
ECO Delivery is using primary data for fuel consumption in the methodology to report emissions savings with greater precision, inclusive of other greenhouse gases in addition to carbon dioxide. The new model also provides price certainty and stability and is de-linked from the fossil fuel market.
“Amazon’s record of securing sustainable shipping over the years, no matter the business climate, is testament to its contributions to building a better
future. We share a common goal with Amazon to reduce our total GHG emissions to net zero by 2040,” asserted asserted Narin Phol, President North America, AP Moller-Maersk.
“As cosigners of the Climate pledge, we must constantly create new opportunities to make this a decade of action. Decarbonizing shipping is one significant step that is to be combined with many others to protect our future,” he asserted.
Co-founded by Global Optimism and Amazon, the Climate Pledge is powered by over 400 companies in 38 countries around the globe. The pledge is a commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, a press communique concluded.
n Cathay Pacific has appointed Shanna Docherty as Regional Head of Trade Sales for Middle East and Africa (MEA). In her new role, Docherty is responsible for identifying new business opportunities and strategically optimising revenue across the airline’s channel partners.
Docherty has been an ardent advocate for the empowerment of women in the aviation sector since joining Cathay Pacific in 2019 as Cargo Manager.
Under her guidance, the airline aims to enhance its offerings and elevate the customer travel experience, while also reinforcing the importance of the Middle East and Africa to Cathay Pacific, which operates scheduled passenger flights to Dubai and Johannesburg, a press statement concluded.
n UAE-based Zajel Courier Services has appointed Nabeel Al Kharabsheh as the company’s new General Manager. The move comes as the company seeks to solidify their market position regionally and globally.
Launched in 2008, Zajel Courier Services is one of the fastest growing logistics and courier service companies in the UAE. With over a decade of experience, to date the company has delivered over 42mn shipments covering over 200 countries. In addition to domestic courier services and e-commerce, the company also provides air, sea and GCC road freight.
The newly appointed Al Kharabsheh comes with over a decade of experience, working with the world’s logistical giants in the UAE and abroad. Al Kharabsheh has comprehensive knowledge within the
logistics and supply chain space, working closely with various courier businesses, in freight forwarding, project logistics and even warehouse solutions, according to a press communique.
“I believe that Zajel is one of the region’s most promising logistical providers and I only see upward growth for the company and its scope of operations which have worldwide outreach,” observed Al Kharabsheh.
Al Kharabsheh holds a degree in industrial engineering from the Hashemite University, one of Jordan’s top educational institutions. Upon graduating he moved from Jordan to Egypt in 2008, working as logistics manager, then headed to Dubai in 2010 to 2012 to continue his professional career as logistics lead, the press statement concluded.
n King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) announced that its Logistics Zone will begin operations in 2024. The Logistics Zone, an advanced, fully automated district, will feature the first and largest private dry port in the region, on-site customs clearance services and bonded warehouses.
It will be operated and maintained by SPARK Logistics, a joint venture established between SPARK and Hutchison Ports, the leading global ports operator.
The Logistics Zone will leverage SPARK’s strategic location in the Eastern Province, serving as a gateway for the regional energy sector. It will ease access to global markets and enable businesses to capture the growing demand for energy-related products through a seamless and efficient supply chain.
Once fully operational, the Zone will handle up to ten million tons of cargo utilizing fully automated RTG’s (Rubber Tyred Gantry Yard cranes) and gates, along with the latest dedicated non-invasive scanning equipment to expedite the clearance of cargo.
“The establishment of the Logistics Zone marks an important milestone for SPARK as we work towards building an integrated, world-class ecosystem in the heart of energy
demand for investors and tenants,” asserted Saif Al Qahtani, President, and CEO, SPARK.
“Through the Zone, we aim to attract significant investment, drive economic growth and create new opportunities for businesses by providing unmatched access and connectivity to the region. This step advances our commitment to build a leading industrial ecosystem that connects the world to opportunities in the Saudi energy sector and beyond,” he added.
The Logistics Zone is included as one of
the designated logistics zones within the National Transport and Logistics Strategy’s Logistics Masterplan. It was developed as part of SPARK’s commitment to foster a vibrant energy ecosystem and worldclass energy hub that drives economic growth and innovation in the MENA region, while advancing the Vision 2030’s ambitions to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub and increase local manufacturing, a press communique concluded.
n The Saudi Arabian General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (known as GEOSA) has awarded Fugro a contract to conduct a comprehensive survey of the Kingdom’s eastern coastline with the primary objective of improving the safety and efficiency of shipping navigation, according to a press communique.
Covering an area of over 11,000sqm, Fugro will deploy its High-Speed Hydrography solution, a combination of Airborne Lidar Bathymetry (ALB), vesselbased acoustic methods and advanced processing techniques to acquire and analyse Geo-data in compliance with International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) standards.
These technologies will be deployed by a team of international hydrographic experts, including those with prior experience working on GEOSA contracts, the press statement continued.
Fugro will partner with IIC Technologies, a specialist in nautical
chart creation, to develop the final project deliverables. Fugro and IIC Technologies have a successful track record of delivering similar hydrographic projects for GEOSA (previously GASGI) since 2010.
“By utilizing our cutting-edge hydrographic technologies, we’re committed to delivering rapid and
n In the evolving landscape of Oman’s automotive industry, one player has taken the lead in shaping a greener and more sustainable future. Audi Oman has been at the forefront of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, introducing groundbreaking initiatives and achieving milestones that have driven Oman towards a new era of mobility, according to a press stateemnt.
March 2022 marked a milestone as Audi Oman proudly unveiled the e-tron Sportback, a symbol of Audi’s commitment to sustainable mobility. This unveiling not only showcased Audi’s dedication to innovative design and exceptional performance but also began an era of anticipation within Oman’s EV industry.
Recognizing the critical need for a robust charging infrastructure for the benefit of the customers and the Sultanate‘s sustainability, Audi Oman embarked on a mission to establish an extensive EV charger network. In November 2022, their vision became a reality with the launch of the ‘Audi EVO’ charging network.
With more than 50 Audi EV chargers installed between July 2021 and June 2023, Audi Oman has built a robust charging infrastructure that ensures convenient, efficient, and reliable charging solutions across the Sultanate.
Audi Oman’s dedication to environmental responsibility extends beyond initiatives and partnerships. The brand has actively
reliable data in compliance with international standards. This project is a testament to our long-standing relationship with GEOSA and global track record in delivering high-speed hydrographic surveys,” affirmed Marco Filippone, Solution Director, Hydrography, Fugro.
supported EV adoption by highlighting various public incentives, including exemptions from VAT, Customs Duty, and Registration on EVs, as well as VAT exemptions on all Genuine Parts related to EVs.
As Audi Oman continues to drive innovation and advocate for sustainable mobility, they are actively shaping a future where electric vehicles become the norm.
n Menzies Aviation, the leading service partner to the world’s airports and airlines, has successfully extended its agreement with Jazeera Airways, the leading low-cost carrier in Kuwait.
The announcement marks the next step in an expanding partnership with the Kuwaiti airline, which includes passenger, ramp, and air cargo services at seven airports in five countries.
At Kuwait International Airport (KWI), the extended five-year agreement will see Menzies Aviation, operating as National Aviation Services (NAS) at KWI, continue to deliver ground and air cargo handling services, managing more than 1,400 flights a month.
This latest announcement in the ongoing partnership with Jazeera Airways follows the introduction of passenger, ramp and air cargo services earlier this year at Islamabad International Airport (ISB) in Pakistan where the Menzies-RAS team successfully managed its inaugural flight from Kuwait.
In Europe, new contracts were also secured at Tivat International Airport (TIV), Montenegro and Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), Serbia. This marks the next step in the partnership between Menzies and the airline, building on its existing in Pakistan and Jordan.
“The extension of our agreement with Jazeera Airways in Kuwait is the next step in our continued strategic partnership, and demonstrates the strength of our ground services offering,” commented Hassan El Houry, Chairman, Menzies Aviation.
n Bahri has successfully concluded its participation at the 4th edition of the Saudi Maritime Congress as a founding partner. The event was held under the patronage of HE Saleh Bin Nasser AlJasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the event took place in the Kingdom’s Eastern port city of Dammam.
During the Congress, Bahri underlined its support for global maritime events and affirmed its pivotal role in driving the growth of the regional logistics sector. Hosted at the Dhahran ExpoDammam, the conference kicked off with the welcome speech of Eng. Ahmed Ali Alsubaey, Bahri CEO, in which he emphasized the Kingdom’s rapid progress toward becoming a world-leading maritime hub.
“The Saudi maritime sector possesses vast potential, and this conference is an ideal platform to showcase our capabilities to the world. The development of the maritime and logistics sector is vital in realizing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030
objectives,” stated AlSubaey.
He also reaffirmed Bahri’s commitment to decarbonization, technology and digital innovation, education, and upskilling next-generation talent with the tools needed to thrive in the industry.
On the sidelines of the congress, Bahri
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SAIL, a subsidiary of the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), a company owned by Public Investment Fund (PIF), to mutually strengthen their offerings within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a press note concluded.
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