Dubai: DHL Group today officially opens its newly expanded Middle East and Africa (MEA) Innovation Centre, reinforcing the company's continued investment in shaping the future of logistics across the region.
According to Emirates News Agency, DHL Supply Chain is investing EUR120 million to develop a new multi-user warehouse in Dubai South. The facility will operate carbon-neutral and is strategically located near the Innovation Centre and the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport. These developments aim to create a hub where innovation and operations converge, expanding DHL's footprint in Dubai and across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This expansion reinforces DHL Group's long-term commitment to the region and enhances the integration of innovation and operations for customers.
Katja Busch, Chief Commercial Officer DHL and Head of DHL Customer Solutions and Innovation, stated, 'The Middle East and Africa is one of our most vibrant regions, and DHL was among the first logistics companies to establish a strong presence here. Building on the success of its previous mobile setup, the new Innovation Centre is now a permanent hub, showcasing our commitment to MEA and the UAE as one of only four DHL Innovation Centres worldwide. It helps customers navigate the region's dynamic logistics landscape through collaboration and cutting-edge innovation.'
Orkun Saruhanoglu, CEO at DHL Supply Chain Middle East and Africa, commented, 'Our new multi-user warehouse in Dubai South's free zone strengthens our regional presence by bringing innovation and operations even closer together. Shaping the future of trade, this facility is designed to power global supply chains and will enhance DHL's ability to serve customers seeking shorter lead times. The site will serve as a contract logistics gateway, acting as a bridge between East and West. Our customers will benefit from integrated solutions and innovation that drive efficiency, sustainability, and growth across their entire supply chains.'
Spanning 1,700 square meters, the DHL MEA Innovation Centre is designed as a collaborative platform, bringing together customers, partners, startups, and academic institutions to foster exchange and explore emerging technologies. It features dedicated meeting and workshop spaces and serves as a regional lighthouse for logistics transformation.
The centre hosts experts from DHL Customer Solutions and Innovation's regional team, supporting cross-regional collaboration and the development of next-generation logistics solutions. Irina Albanese, Head of Innovation Middle East and Africa, DHL Customer Solutions and Innovation, noted, 'The Innovation Centre in Dubai stands as a flagship example of these investments in action, bringing DHL's innovation strategy to life in one of the region's logistics hubs. Collaboration is at the heart of innovation; by working closely with customers and partners, we combine diverse expertise to tackle challenges and turn emerging trends into solutions. This approach ensures supply chains are not only stronger today but ready for the future.'
Dubai South, as a key partner of the Innovation Centre, plays a role in creating a connected ecosystem linking innovation with operational excellence, reinforcing Dubai's position as a logistics hub. Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District at Dubai South, stated, 'Our collaboration with DHL underscores Dubai South's commitment to building a connected ecosystem that accelerates progress in logistics. By combining global expertise and local innovation, we are creating opportunities that strengthen Dubai's position as a hub for logistics and innovation.'
DHL Supply Chain has signed a EUR120 million agreement, including leasehold commitments, for a 38-year term on a 96,000 square meter land plot in Dubai South. The development will include a 55,000 square meter multi-user warehouse and additional office space, strategically located near the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport. Construction is scheduled to break ground in Q1 2026, with completion planned for summer 2027.