DHL Group has committed more than €300 million to a multi-year investment programme aimed at expanding its operations across Sub-Saharan Africa. The announcement underscores the logistics giant’s strategic focus on capitalising on the region’s growing trade activity, e-commerce expansion and evolving supply-chain infrastructure.

According to the company’s October 15, 2025 press release, the funds will be distributed across its three main divisions: DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Supply Chain. The investment will support upgrades in gateways, aviation capacity, cold-chain infrastructure and regional fulfilment networks, especially in emerging second-tier cities.

Strategic Rationale

DHL says the investment is a response to what it describes as “a pivotal moment in Africa’s trade journey”. The company highlights recent data showing Sub-Saharan Africa recorded a 10 percent year-on-year increase in trade value during the first half of 2025, the highest of any global region. Logistics Update Africa

The firm argues that the region offers both rising demand for logistics services and strategic opportunity, driven by increased connectivity via the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and growing e-commerce. By strengthening local infrastructure and supply-chain capabilities, DHL aims to enable African exporters and firms to compete in global markets more effectively. DHL Group+1

Investment Focus Areas

DHL’s investments will target several key sectors and operational capabilities:

• Upgrading existing express gateways and increasing aviation linker capacity to support Africa–Europe and Africa–Asia trade corridors.Expanding cold-chain and perishables logistics to support agriculture, horticulture and life-sciences exports.

• Enhancing fulfilment and warehousing capacity in countries such as South Africa, Nigeria and Ethiopia; with particular emphasis on second-tier cities where logistics gaps remain.  Group

• Deploying digital tools for inventory visibility, routing optimisation and customs automation to improve reliability and reduce transit times.

• Integrating sustainability measures including alternative fuels, renewable-energy powered facilities and emissions-reduction programmes.

Impact on the African Logistics Landscape

By allocating this level of capital to Sub-Saharan Africa, DHL signals growing operational commitment rather than a peripheral presence. The move is expected to have several ripple-effects within the regional logistics ecosystem:

• Improved infrastructure may facilitate faster delivery times, better trade access for SMEs and increased participation of African firms in global value chains.

• The investment may attract competitor activity and raise the bar for service levels across the industry, especially in e-commerce and perishables logistics, sectors where reliability often limits growth.

• Governments and regional bodies might view increased private-sector investment as an endorsement of policy frameworks addressing trade-facilitation, customs reform and free-trade integration.

• The stronger presence of a global logistics player may influence job creation, local supplier development and logistics-industry maturity in emerging markets.

Challenges and Considerations

While the investment is significant, several risks and execution challenges remain:

• Infrastructure development in Africa faces structural hurdles such as funding gaps, inconsistent regulation and fragmented local markets. DHL must navigate these while scaling across multiple jurisdictions.

• Achieving profitability in logistics expansion often depends on operational efficiency and scale. The increased investment implies that DHL expects sufficiently deep demand and stable growth; any slowdown could impact financial returns.

• External shocks—such as global supply-chain disruptions, currency volatility or regional security instability could affect the effectiveness of network expansion in new cities.

• Sustainability goals such as alternative-fuel deployment and digital customs integration require time, coordination with local authorities, and upfront cost. Balancing long-term investment with near-term results will be critical.

Outlook

With this investment plan, DHL positions itself to capitalise on Africa’s anticipated growth in trade, logistics demand and digital commerce. Business analysts suggest that logistics infrastructure will increasingly become a bottleneck for African exporters unless matched by strategic investment. By committing significant funds now, DHL aims to be ahead of that bottleneck.

The next two to three years will be pivotal. Key milestones will include delivery-time improvements; expansion of warehousing networks; growth in cold-chain throughput; and greater visibility of logistics-service performance across the continent. If executed successfully, the investment could reshape logistics service expectations in Africa and help local firms integrate more fluidly into global trade networks.

Conclusion

DHL’s announcement of a €300 million plus investment in Sub-Saharan Africa underscores the company’s long-term strategic bet on the region’s trade and logistics potential. By focusing on infrastructure upgrades, technology adoption and sectoral growth in e-commerce, perishables and healthcare logistics, the firm aims to both enable regional businesses and secure its position as a leading global integrator. As Africa’s trade volumes rise and logistics demands become more complex, such investment may prove decisive in defining the next era of supply-chain connectivity.

Amazon UAE has unveiled a new citywide packaging recycling program featuring more than 150 collection points across Dubai, marking a significant step in its ongoing sustainability strategy. The initiative aims to make recycling easier for customers, reduce packaging waste, and contribute to the UAE’s broader environmental goals under the Green Agenda 2030. The move also aligns with Amazon’s global Climate Pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible logistics and circular economy models.

According to a report by Gulf Business
, the recycling program allows Amazon.ae customers to drop off used packaging materials including cardboard boxes, paper fillers, and plastic envelopes at designated drop-off points located throughout residential and commercial areas in Dubai. Customers can scan the QR code printed on their Amazon package to find the nearest drop-off location through the company’s “Second Chance” platform, which provides clear recycling guidelines and educational resources.

Amazon has partnered with Enviroserve
, a leading UAE-based recycling and e-waste management firm, to manage the collected materials. Enviroserve will oversee the sorting, processing, and recycling of all packaging items collected through the program. The collaboration reflects a shared vision between Amazon and Enviroserve to promote community-level participation in environmental responsibility and sustainable waste management.

Prashant Saran, Director of Operations for Amazon Middle East, Africa and Turkey, explained that the initiative is part of the company’s long-term plan to integrate sustainability into every level of its business operations. In his statement to Gulf Business, Saran emphasized that the new recycling network is designed to make it simple and accessible for every Amazon customer in Dubai to contribute to environmental preservation without any additional effort or cost.

Similarly, Shashidhar Y S, Managing Director at Enviroserve, noted that this partnership represents a major milestone in Dubai’s transition toward a circular economy. In an interview with Focus Dubai
, he said the project will help minimize landfill waste and create awareness about the importance of responsible disposal. According to him, proper recycling of packaging materials not only reduces environmental pollution but also preserves valuable raw materials for reuse in manufacturing.

The 150+ drop-off locations have been strategically placed in high-density communities, shopping centers, and business districts to maximize participation. Amazon officials said that the company conducted a detailed study of consumer habits and population density to ensure the sites are within easy reach for most Dubai residents. This logistical approach reflects Amazon’s expertise in distribution network design, now applied to sustainability.

The recycling points will accept a variety of packaging materials, including corrugated cardboard, flexible plastic mailers, bubble wraps, and air pillows. Once collected, the materials will be transported to Enviroserve’s facility in Dubai Industrial City for sorting and recycling. The company plans to expand its processing capabilities further if the initiative receives a positive response.

This initiative complements other sustainability programs already launched by Amazon globally, such as the “Frustration-Free Packaging” initiative and “Ships in Product Packaging” system, which reduce the use of excess materials. As Zawya
reports, Amazon has also been experimenting with AI-driven logistics to optimize packaging sizes and materials in an effort to reduce overall waste.

Beyond environmental goals, the program also aims to engage customers in sustainable behavior. By making recycling an integral part of the post-delivery process, Amazon is encouraging a cultural shift toward environmental accountability. The company’s Second Chance platform plays a crucial role in this education effort, providing information not only on packaging recycling but also on responsible disposal of electronics, batteries, and household waste.

Industry experts see this as part of a broader trend where major e-commerce players are adapting their supply chains to meet stricter sustainability expectations from both consumers and governments. Analysts believe Amazon’s initiative could serve as a model for other retailers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, particularly as local governments increase investment in green infrastructure and recycling technologies.

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism has also praised private-sector involvement in environmental projects. The emirate’s leadership continues to encourage public-private collaborations that align with its Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Green Economy vision. Amazon’s recycling program, with its focus on community participation and smart logistics, fits neatly within this framework.

However, the project also presents several challenges. Maintaining collection consistency across 150 different sites, ensuring contamination-free recycling streams, and scaling the initiative across other emirates are logistical hurdles Amazon and Enviroserve will need to manage carefully. Customer education is another key factor — recycling can only succeed if consumers understand which materials can be returned and how to prepare them properly.

Despite these challenges, sustainability experts in the UAE have welcomed the program as a much-needed initiative in the country’s fast-growing e-commerce sector. With online orders increasing dramatically since 2020, packaging waste has become a growing environmental concern. Initiatives like this could help mitigate that trend while strengthening Dubai’s position as a global leader in sustainable innovation.

Amazon’s investment in this program follows other eco-driven projects across the Middle East, including solar-powered delivery stations, reduced-emission transport routes, and AI-based waste optimization systems. The company’s Middle East operations have increasingly integrated environmental priorities into their business strategies, not only for compliance but as a competitive advantage.

As sustainability expectations continue to evolve globally, Amazon UAE’s new recycling program represents both a business and environmental milestone. By merging customer convenience with ecological responsibility, the company is setting a precedent for how large-scale logistics operations can balance growth with sustainability. If the initiative achieves its goals, it could become a benchmark for urban recycling infrastructure in other emerging e-commerce markets across the region.

The pilot phase will run through 2026, after which Amazon and Enviroserve plan to analyze data from drop-off activity and customer engagement metrics to refine the program. Depending on the outcomes, Amazon may consider replicating the system in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other cities within the UAE.

For now, the launch demonstrates that sustainability and logistics innovation are not mutually exclusive. As Amazon’s Middle East leadership has stated, the ultimate goal is to ensure that every package delivered to a customer in Dubai can be responsibly recycled — closing the loop between commerce and conservation.

Amazon has announced plans to invest more than €1 billion (approximately US$1.06 billion) in Belgium between 2025 and 2027. This investment, the company’s largest in Belgium to date, will focus on expanding Amazon’s logistics network, creating jobs, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enhancing infrastructure that facilitates faster deliveries and better customer experience across the country. (Fibre2Fashion) fibre2fashion.com

Scaling Up Logistics and Delivery Capacity

Part of the planned investment will be dedicated to improving delivery stations, fulfillment centers, and local infrastructure, enabling Amazon to serve Belgian customers with greater speed and reliability. Amazon Belgium and the Netherlands country manager, Eva Faict, has stated that the investment will help the company strengthen its local infrastructure to better serve customers, while continuing to work with local delivery partners such as bpost, Belgium’s national postal operator. fibre2fashion.com

The logistics upgrade is intended not only to support consumer demand but also to reduce operational bottlenecks. With enhanced facilities and optimized supply chain operations, Amazon aims to increase its efficiency and scale up time-sensitive delivery services. Improved infrastructure is expected to involve upgrades in systems, transportation links, handling capacities, and possibly more automation in handling and sorting centers. fibre2fashion.com

Partnerships, Local Impact and Job Creation

Amazon’s new investment builds on its earlier commitments in Belgium. The company previously invested around €550 million (approximately US$583 million) during 2023–2024 in various operations. These earlier investments contributed to expanding delivery networks, creating jobs, and forming deeper partnerships with Belgian logistics providers. fibre2fashion.com

With the new funding, Amazon plans to further support Belgian SMEs by helping them reach both domestic and international customers. By leveraging Amazon’s platforms and logistics capabilities, small businesses will have more opportunities to expand their reach. Eva Faict has emphasized that since launching amazon.com.be in October 2022, the company has helped over a thousand Belgian businesses access new customers, created hundreds of local jobs, and worked closely with local delivery partners. fibre2fashion.com

Job creation is expected to be a key outcome. Amazon currently employs more than 400 people across Belgium — in its headquarters in Brussels, its delivery station in Antwerp, the Mechatronics Research & Development Centre in Hamme, and other facilities. The new investment is expected to result in additional hiring in fulfillment, operations, technology, research & development, and local delivery services. fibre2fashion.com

Sustainability and Environmental Measures

Amazon has also pledged that part of the investment will focus on sustainability. Initiatives include deploying more eco-friendly delivery packaging, optimizing routes to reduce emissions, and working to minimize environmental footprint in operations. More than 50 percent of European shipments now use reduced or no added packaging in specified formats like envelopes or paper bags. The investment aims to expand these programs in Belgium. fibre2fashion.com

Programs such as “Climate Pledge Friendly” that highlight certified sustainable products are also part of Amazon’s strategy to enable customers to make environmentally conscious choices. In addition, trade-in and reuse programs, and product repair or reuse initiatives, form part of the broader effort to promote circular economy practices. fibre2fashion.com

Economic Significance and Regional Development

Belgium’s government, particularly in Flanders, has welcomed Amazon’s investment, seeing it as an endorsement of the country’s economic strengths. Matthias Diependaele, Minister-President of Flanders, has noted that Amazon’s investment demonstrates that the region continues to attract global tech and logistics leaders, and reinforces its strategic position in digital commerce in Europe. fibre2fashion.com

Economic analysts believe this investment will contribute meaningfully to Belgian GDP. Estimates show that Amazon’s previous investments since 2015 have resulted in more than €350 million contribution to the Belgian economy. With the new investment, this number is expected to rise significantly when factoring in expanded operations and increased activity from logistics, infrastructure, and SME growth. fibre2fashion.com

Challenges and Opportunities

While the investment promises many benefits, Amazon will face challenges. Some of these include aligning logistics operations with local regulations, managing environmental compliance, ensuring workforce training, and maintaining delivery efficiency in both urban and rural areas. Integrating sustainability goals without compromising speed and cost is often a delicate balance.

On the opportunity side, Belgium’s central location in Europe offers Amazon advantageous connectivity to neighboring countries. Efficient logistics and transport networks can allow Belgium to serve not just its own e-commerce market but also act as a hub for cross-border operations in the EU.

Looking Forward: What This Means for Amazon and Belgium

For Amazon, this investment marks a reaffirmation of its commitment to European growth and improving service quality. The company aims to improve delivery timeframes, reduce operational costs through infrastructure economies of scale, and deepen its market penetration in Belgium. The investment will also support Amazon’s competitive positioning against other e-commerce and logistics providers in Europe.

For Belgium, the implications are substantial. Improved infrastructure, more jobs, stronger SME participation in e-commerce, and enhanced logistics capacity can help Belgium maintain and grow its role in digital commerce. The environmental initiatives tied to the investment also align with broader EU and national sustainability goals—helping Belgium meet targets for carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly commerce.

Conclusion

Amazon’s announced investment of over €1 billion in Belgium from 2025 to 2027 stands as a landmark move, combining economic development, logistical enhancement, and sustainable operations. It promises to bring benefits for customers, local businesses, workers, and the environment. As Amazon scales up its footprint in Belgium, the country will likely see ripple effects in GDP growth, SME expansion, and innovation in supply chain management.

This development further demonstrates how major tech and e-commerce companies are increasingly investing in infrastructure and green logistics, not just for profit but also in response to regulatory, environmental, and consumer demands. Amazon’s commitment in Belgium could serve as a model for similar investments across Europe, especially in regions with strong logistics potential and supportive government policies.

Blackstone and Abu Dhabi-based Lunate have announced a strategic partnership to launch a $5 billion logistics platform aimed at transforming infrastructure across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The initiative, named GLIDE Gulf Logistics Infrastructure Development Enterprise is designed to develop, acquire, and manage high-quality logistics assets across GCC countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. This collaboration combines Blackstone’s global investment expertise with Lunate’s deep regional knowledge, creating a platform capable of addressing the growing logistics and supply chain demands in the Gulf. (Reuters)

The partnership comes at a time when the GCC region is experiencing significant economic diversification and industrial expansion. Countries in the region are implementing policies to reduce dependency on oil revenues and encourage investment in sectors such as manufacturing, e-commerce, and logistics. The rise of online commerce has increased the demand for modern warehousing and distribution centers capable of supporting faster delivery and efficient supply chains. According to Gulf News, logistics infrastructure in the GCC has struggled to keep pace with the rapid growth of trade and e-commerce, creating a substantial opportunity for investors like Blackstone and Lunate. (Gulf News)

GLIDE’s investment strategy is multi-pronged. It includes greenfield developments, where new logistics facilities are constructed in strategic locations; selective acquisitions of existing high-quality warehouses and distribution centers; and sale-and-leaseback arrangements, allowing regional companies to free up capital while GLIDE manages their logistics operations. By employing this strategy, the platform aims to create a comprehensive network of logistics assets that can support the region’s growing industrial and e-commerce activities.

Blackstone brings extensive global experience to the partnership, as it manages over 1.2 billion square feet of logistics and industrial real estate worldwide. Lunate, on the other hand, contributes its in-depth knowledge of the GCC market, strong local connections, and experience navigating regulatory frameworks in the region. The combination of these strengths allows GLIDE to operate efficiently, identify high-potential investments, and develop facilities that meet international standards while addressing local market needs. (Blackstone)

The GCC region’s logistics sector is expected to grow substantially in the coming years, with estimates suggesting that the market could exceed $110 billion by 2030, up from around $81 billion in 2025. This growth is fueled by rising e-commerce penetration, the expansion of industrial zones, and increased consumer demand for faster and more reliable delivery services. GLIDE’s platform is expected to play a key role in meeting this demand, providing modern and efficient logistics infrastructure to support businesses across the region. (Reuters)

Economic diversification programs such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Industrial Strategy 2030 underscore the importance of logistics and supply chain development as critical enablers of broader economic goals. These initiatives aim to enhance industrial output, attract foreign investment, and improve trade efficiency. By investing in high-quality logistics assets, GLIDE aligns with these national strategies and positions itself as a facilitator of regional economic growth.

GLIDE also emphasizes sustainability and modern operational standards. The platform plans to integrate environmentally friendly practices, including energy-efficient warehouses, sustainable building materials, and optimized transportation networks. These efforts are intended to reduce the environmental impact of logistics operations while supporting the GCC’s broader sustainability targets.

The collaboration is expected to create significant economic benefits for the region. In addition to improving supply chain efficiency, GLIDE’s investments will generate employment opportunities and foster technological innovation within the logistics sector. By enhancing the quality and reach of logistics infrastructure, businesses across the GCC will be better positioned to serve both local and international markets, increasing competitiveness and economic resilience.

Jon Gray, President and COO of Blackstone, highlighted that the combination of pro-growth policies, industrial expansion, and demographic trends in the GCC is creating a unique environment for logistics investments. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Managing Partner at Lunate, emphasized that combining global investment experience with regional expertise would unlock the potential of the Gulf logistics market, providing both investors and local economies with tangible benefits.

While GLIDE presents significant opportunities, it will also need to navigate challenges such as regulatory approvals, competition from existing logistics providers, and infrastructure constraints. Success will depend on careful project planning, effective partnerships with local authorities, and ongoing monitoring of market demand and operational efficiency.

The launch of GLIDE represents a broader trend of increased foreign investment in GCC infrastructure. As the region continues to diversify its economy and expand industrial and e-commerce activities, partnerships like GLIDE are expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of logistics and supply chain management.

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has entered into a strategic partnership with the German–Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK) to deepen bilateral trade ties and attract more German investment to Dubai’s fast-growing innovation and technology sectors.

The agreement, signed at Dubai CommerCity, establishes a framework to support the expansion of German enterprises across DIEZ’s three key zones — Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai CommerCity (DCC). It aims to foster collaboration in Industry 4.0, sustainability, smart manufacturing, and digital trade, in line with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 to double the emirate’s economy and global competitiveness over the next decade.

The signing ceremony brought together Amna Lootah, Director General of DAFZ and DCC, and Dr. Martin Henkelmann, CEO of AHK, in the presence of Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, and Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of Germany in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Strengthening Bilateral Economic Momentum

Lootah said the partnership builds upon a long-standing UAE–Germany economic relationship, with non-oil trade reaching AED 50.68 billion (USD 13.8 billion) in 2024 — a 5.4% increase compared to the previous year.

“This agreement marks a new chapter for German companies seeking to grow in Dubai’s innovation-led economy,” Lootah said. “It reflects our shared commitment to advancing trade, logistics, and future technologies while supporting Dubai’s vision under D33.”

Pfaff called the initiative a milestone in innovation-led cooperation. “Germany and the UAE share a robust economic bond. This partnership will further elevate our collaboration in technology and sustainability, with Dubai serving as an ideal gateway for German enterprises to scale across the region,” she said.

Dr. Henkelmann highlighted that the partnership gives German businesses streamlined access to Dubai’s innovation ecosystem. “With DIEZ’s advanced infrastructure and business-friendly environment, German firms can expand efficiently and tap into new growth opportunities across the Middle East,” he said.

Key Initiatives To Facilitate Market Entry In Collaboration With DIEZ

Under the agreement, several initiatives will be rolled out to simplify operations and boost investment flow:

• Establishment of a “German Desk” to support market entry, setup, and licensing for German firms.
• Introduction of a “Fast Lane” system at Dubai Airport Freezone to facilitate trade, logistics, and customs clearance for German exporters.
• Development of a joint industrial innovation platform focused on Industry 4.0, sustainability, and smart manufacturing — including a new innovation hub at Dubai Silicon Oasis for pilot projects.
• Tailored incentive programs for German e-commerce and logistics companies via Dubai CommerCity.
• Startup collaboration programs enabling German startups to enter the UAE market through Oraseya Capital and Wadi.AI, while giving UAE startups reciprocal access to German innovation networks.

Expanding German Footprint In Dubai’s Innovation Zones

More than 200 German companies currently operate across DIEZ’s integrated economic zones, including global names such as Airbus, DHL, Henkel, Porsche, Wacker, Beckhoff, and Audi VW.

DIEZ Executive Chairman Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni said the collaboration will accelerate Dubai’s transition toward a knowledge-driven economy. “By aligning German innovation with Dubai’s advanced industrial and digital capabilities, this partnership will catalyze the growth of future industries and attract high-value investment,” he said.

Amna Rashed Lootah Appointed as General Manager of Dubai CommerCity!

Food delivery giant DoorDash has completed its long-anticipated acquisition of Deliveroo, officially integrating Deliveroo UAE into its fast-growing international network. The deal, valued at approximately £2.9 billion (USD 3.9 billion), strengthens DoorDash’s position in Europe and the Middle East, while offering new opportunities for restaurant partners and customers across the UAE.

A New Phase in DoorDash’s Global Delivery Operations

Announcing the completion, DoorDash Co-Founder and CEO Tony Xu described the merger as “the beginning of a new chapter,” assuring customers that Deliveroo’s app and services will continue uninterrupted. Xu added, “By combining DoorDash’s scale and technology with Deliveroo’s strong local presence, we can serve more people, in more places, with greater impact.”

The acquisition, first proposed in late 2024, received full regulatory approval earlier this month from the European Union and other competition authorities. Door Dash’s international head and Wolt Co-Founder Miki Kuusi has been appointed CEO of Deliveroo, and will relocate to London to oversee the next phase of integration.

Strengthening Regional and Global Presence

The move marks DoorDash’s most significant global expansion since its purchase of Wolt in 2022. With Deliveroo’s addition, the combined platform will now operate in over 40 countries, including key markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.

Industry analysts note that the deal positions Door Dash to better compete with Uber Eats, Talabat, and Careem Food in the UAE’s growing online delivery market, which Statista projects to exceed USD 2.6 billion by 2026.

In the UAE, Deliveroo partners with thousands of local and international restaurants and has become a fixture in Dubai’s urban lifestyle. DoorDash’s entry is expected to enhance logistics capabilities and introduce new merchant tools developed under its U.S. and Finnish tech arms.

Market outlook

Analysts view the takeover as part of a broader consolidation trend in the global delivery industry, driven by cost optimization and market diversification. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, DoorDash’s international revenue share is expected to rise from 12% to nearly 25% after the Deliveroo integration.

“The Middle East represents one of the fastest-growing digital consumption markets globally,” said Rita Liu, a regional fintech and e-commerce consultant. “DoorDash’s arrival underscores Dubai’s role as a hub for global tech and logistics innovation.”

Company Profiles

• DoorDash Inc.
  Founded in 2013 and headquartered in San Francisco, Door Dash is one of the world’s leading on-demand delivery platforms. It operates across North America, Europe, and Asia, connecting consumers with local merchants and couriers. The company went public on the NYSE in 2020 under the ticker DASH.
• Deliveroo plc
  Founded in London in 2013, Deliveroo is a multinational food delivery company operating in 10+ markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. It is known for its fleet of “Deliveroo riders” and partnerships with premium restaurants. Deliveroo was listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2021 before being acquired by DoorDash in 2025.

Talabat Services Co. Reopens in Qatar

Americold, a global frontrunner in temperature-controlled warehousing and logistics, has officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art cold storage facility in Dubai’s strategic Jebel Ali Free Zone. This facility marks Americold’s largest operational center in the Middle East and is designed to revolutionize the regional cold chain infrastructure, supporting the fast-growing food and beverage sector across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Meeting the Increasing Demand for Cold Storage in the GCC

The new facility boasts an impressive capacity of 40,000 pallet positions and incorporates multiple temperature zones to accommodate a wide variety of perishable goods, including frozen foods, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and specialty products. The flexible temperature controls ensure that each product is stored in optimal conditions, preserving freshness and extending shelf life.

The construction project began in early 2024 and is expected to be fully operational by the first quarter of 2025. This rapid development timeline reflects the urgency and scale of demand for advanced cold storage solutions driven by increased imports, population growth, and rising consumer expectations for high-quality fresh and frozen food products.

According to a report by Transport Journal, the Middle East’s cold chain logistics market is experiencing double-digit growth, propelled by expanding retail sectors, increased food safety regulations, and the region’s strategic position in global food trade routes.

Strengthening Regional Supply Chains Through Strategic Partnerships

Americold has strategically partnered with RSA Cold Chain, a Dubai-based cold storage specialist, combining local market expertise with global operational capabilities. This collaboration enhances Americold’s ability to tailor services to the unique needs of Middle Eastern clients.

Moreover, Americold has joined forces with DP World, one of the world’s largest port operators and logistics companies, to streamline the integration of warehousing and transport. DP World’s extensive port infrastructure at Jebel Ali provides seamless access to shipping routes connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa, thus optimizing supply chain efficiency.

As noted by AJOT, such alliances are instrumental in addressing the complex logistical challenges of temperature-sensitive goods, enabling faster turnaround times and reducing transit risks.

Impact on Critical Sectors and Food Security

The cold storage facility supports essential sectors including quick-service restaurants, supermarkets, food distributors, and pharmaceutical companies requiring reliable and compliant cold chain management. With the GCC region importing a significant portion of its food supply, the need for robust cold chain infrastructure is paramount to minimize food waste and maintain product quality.

According to a report by Research and Markets, the frozen and chilled food market in the Middle East is forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 7%, driven by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and evolving consumer preferences toward convenient and nutritious foods.

The facility will help local businesses comply with increasingly stringent food safety standards, reduce spoilage-related losses, and improve inventory management, thereby enhancing food security across the region.

Commitment to Highest Food Safety and Quality Standards

Americold’s Dubai facility is designed and operated in accordance with globally recognized food safety certifications, including ISO 22000 and HACCP standards. These certifications ensure systematic hazard analysis, risk management, and preventive controls across all storage and handling processes.

This focus on compliance not only protects consumers but also reassures international clients and regulatory bodies, facilitating smooth cross-border trade and fostering trust in the region’s cold chain capabilities.

Dubai’s Role as a Global Logistics Hub

Dubai’s geographical location and advanced infrastructure have established it as a key logistics hub linking Asia, Europe, and Africa. The Jebel Ali Free Zone, where Americold’s facility is situated, is home to one of the world’s largest and busiest container ports.

Americold’s investment strengthens Dubai’s position as a central node for the import and export of perishable goods, improving supply chain agility and resilience in a region heavily reliant on food imports. This is especially crucial in times of global disruptions, where efficient cold chain operations can mitigate risks and ensure steady food supplies.

Future Plans and Innovation in Cold Chain Logistics

Americold plans to double the capacity of its Dubai facility within the next few years to accommodate increasing market demand. The company is also exploring integration of digital technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, blockchain for traceability, and AI-driven inventory management to enhance operational transparency and efficiency.

Partnerships with DP World and RSA Cold Chain are expected to expand further, focusing on automation and sustainable logistics practices to reduce environmental impact while improving service quality.

These initiatives align with the broader regional agenda of economic diversification, digital transformation, and sustainable development, supporting the GCC’s Vision 2030 and similar national strategies.