AN ITP MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION NOVEMBER 2024 • ISSUE 220 A NEW DAWN FOR ENERGY LOGISTICS GWC’s commitment to sustainability and digitalisation is leading the logistics industry into the future In p a rt n e rs h ip w it h G W C LOG_Nov2024_00_Cover_13420346.indd 1LOG_Nov2024_00_Cover_13420346.indd 124/10/2024 16:1924/10/2024 16:19Presented by Official Sponsor Scan For More Information 23 & 24 November 2024 | Hudayriyat Island تﺎـــــﻳﺮـــــﻳﺪـــــﳊا ةﺮـــــﻳﺰـــــﺟ | 2024 ﱪـــــﻤــــــﻓﻮـــــﻧ 24 و 23 Untitled-11 1Untitled-11 123/10/2024 09:4523/10/2024 09:453www.logis tic smiddleeas t .comLOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | NOVEMBER 2024 Welcome to the latest edition of Logistics Middle East, highlighting the transformative journey the logistics sector is undertaking, shaped by cutting-edge technologies, shifting market demands, and the drive towards sustainability. From energy logistics to e-commerce, this edition’s content reflects the challenges and opportunities the industry faces as it navigates uncharted territory. Our cover story dives into how GWC is leading the charge in redefining global logistics with a focus on green and digital transformations. As we move towards a more interconnected and environmentally conscious future, logistics players must balance technology adoption with sustainability, and GWC’s journey offers valuable insights for the industry. The momentum of e-commerce continues to dominate the Middle East market. With new consumer expectations reshaping last-mile logistics, our interview with DHL eCommerce explores how businesses can stay ahead in this ever-evolving space. Complementing this, we take a closer look at the e-commerce boom and its impact on last-mile delivery in the region. As technology takes centre stage, our feature on AI and ML examines how intelligent solutions are enabling companies to streamline operations and mitigate disruptions. In our ones to watch section, we spotlight four breakthrough logistics technologies transforming how supply chains function in the Middle East. Sustainability remains a key priority, and logistics companies are stepping up to address climate challenges. We delve into a feature on Qatar and how it is enabling trade growth while pushing for greener logistics solutions. Furthermore, in a report on oil and gas logistics in the Middle East, we investigate how energy logistics is being reshaped to meet environmental goals. This edition also looks into the cold chain sector, examining innovative warehousing solutions and distribution strategies. For SMEs, we feature Cambridge’s affordable automation project, offering practical insights for businesses navigating tight budgets. As automation becomes more accessible, we also explore the evolving role of 3PLs in supporting seamless distribution networks. Our goal with this issue is to provide not just updates, but actionable insights into the key trends driving the industry forward. As always, we hope you enjoy reading this edition and find inspiration to adapt and thrive in this dynamic landscape. Happy reading, The Warehousing and Distribution Edition EDITOR’S LETTER RYAN HARMON EDITO R , LOG ISTIC S M I DDLE E A ST LOG_Nov2024_3_Editor Letter_13412802.indd 3LOG_Nov2024_3_Editor Letter_13412802.indd 324/10/2024 11:5824/10/2024 11:584www.logis tic smiddleeas t .com CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2024 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST P42P28 IN THIS ISSUE We look at the impact of AI and ML on supply chain management, off ering solutions during disruptive times. FEATURE P12 AI AND ML IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN INTERVIEW REPORT ELEVATING BUSINESS SUCCESS HOW QATAR’S LOCATION FUELS GROWTH Value-added services have become a crucial diff erentiator, transforming the basic service model into something special. Leveraging its strategic location, Qatar is enhancing its logistics sector to boost regional and global trade connectivity. GWC has established itself as a trailblazer in the logistics industry not only through its impressive growth across the GCC and globally, but also through its fi rm commitment to sustainability and digitalisation P18 LOG_Nov2024_4-5_Contents_13412803.indd 4LOG_Nov2024_4-5_Contents_13412803.indd 424/10/2024 11:5924/10/2024 11:595www.logis tic smiddleeas t .com CONTENTS LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | NOVEMBER 2024 JOIN THE CONVERSATION The upcoming edition of Logistics Middle East will shine a spotlight on the the industry icons that are leading the sector to new heights. Contact ryan.harmon@itp.com to be featured. LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST || NOVEMBER T H E W A REHOU S I N G A N D DIST RI BUT I ON EDI T ION P16 P38 P26 P34 [16] HOW LAST-MILE INNOVATIONS ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE The rapid development of e-commerce is driving innovative solutions in last-mile delivery, transforming logistics and consumer experiences. [22] MIDDLE EAST E-COMMERCE: WHAT SHOPPERS WANT NOW DHL’s Ryan Hunter discusses how evolving delivery preferences and sustainability demands are reshaping e-commerce in the Middle East. [26] 4 KEY LOGISTICS TECHNOLOGIES TRANSFORMING SUPPLY CHAINS The logistics technology sector in the Middle East is rapidly evolving, introducing cutting-edge solutions. [34] OPTIMISING COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS: INNOVATIONS IN WAREHOUSING The surge in the Middle East’s population and the increasing demand for online marketplaces have led to a higher need for cold chain facilities. [36] AFFORDABLE AUTOMATION FOR SMES: CAMBRIDGE’S SHOESTRING PROJECT The University of Cambridge’s Shoestring Logistics project is making digital solutions aff ordable for small and medium-sized enterprises in the logistics sector. [38] THE NEW ROLE OF 3PLS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN As supply chain volatility rises, 3PLs can off er cutting-edge technology and strategies that help businesses adapt and thrive. LOG_Nov2024_4-5_Contents_13412803.indd 5LOG_Nov2024_4-5_Contents_13412803.indd 524/10/2024 11:5924/10/2024 11:596www.logis tic smiddleeas t .comNOVEMBER 2024 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 444 3000 Web: www.itp.com Offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, London, Mumbai, Riyadh & Geneva ITP MEDIA GROUP CEO Ali Akawi Managing Director Martin Chambers Head of Digital Media Thomas Shambler EDITORIAL Editor Ryan Harmon Tel: + 971 4 444 3521 Email: Ryan.Harmon@itp.com ART Art Director Amjad Ayche Art Editor Tofiq Memon ADVERTISING Chief Commercial Offi cer Sally Whittam Tel: + 971 4 444 3348 Email: Sally.Whittam@itp.com Senior Commercial Manager Shrief Ali Tel: + 971 4 444 3589 Email: Shrief.Ali@itp.com PHOTOGRAPHY Senior Video Editor Liju Cheruvathur MARKETING Senior Events & Marketing Manager Eleanor Ashton Email: eleanor.ashton@itp.com Associate Events & Marketing Manager Kate Galaktionova Events & Marketing Manager Dmitry Lazarenko Associate Events Manager Vrinali Nazareth Events Administrative Assistant Aronn Pureza Events Administrative Assistant Bobbie Rosario Events Sales Assistant Joyce Salonga Email: events@itp.com PRODUCTION Production Manager Balasubramanian P DISTRIBUTION Circulation Executive Rajesh Pillai Distribution Coordinator Avinash Pereira ITP GROUP CEO Ali Akawi CFO Toby Jay Spencer-Davies The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. PUBLISHED BY AND © 2024 ITP MEDIA GROUP FZ-LLC. LOG_Nov2024_6_Flannel_13412804.indd 6LOG_Nov2024_6_Flannel_13412804.indd 623/10/2024 19:1923/10/2024 19:197www.logis tic smiddleeas t .comLOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | NOVEMBER 2024 NEWS | UPDATE King Salman International Airport partners with FedEx and SILZ LOGISTICS TRANSFORMATION IN RIYADH These strategic partnerships are key to KSIADC’s mission to transform Riyadh into a leading logistics hub. By enhancing infrastructure, boosting operational effi ciency, and fostering global collaboration, KSIADC is helping to realise Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goals under Vision 2030, ensuring the Kingdom’s place as a leader in global logistics and air cargo services. The collaborations are expected to unlock signifi cant economic opportunities, attracting international investors and fostering innovation in the logistics sector. The partnerships will also create job opportunities, stimulate trade, and enhance the overall competitiveness of Riyadh’s logistics ecosystem through cutting-edge technologies and prioritising environmental responsibility. As KSIADC continues to build strategic alliances with its partners, the focus will remain on growth and aligning with global trends in the logistics and supply chain industry, as well as the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. air cargo services. He said, “Together, we will create an attractive environment for international investors and drive economic growth forward.” FEDEX COLLABORATION TO DRIVE INNOVATION The partnership with FedEx will focus on elevating logistics solutions and optimising supply chains at King Salman International Airport. Both parties will work to implement advanced logistics practices, enhance the effi ciency of supply chains, and explore new opportunities in distribution and shipping, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, Managing Director of FedEx Middle East operations, highlighted, “By leveraging our expertise and the strategic location of King Salman International Airport, we will work to improve supply-chain operations and implement the best innovative solutions, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub with high effi ciency, quality, and speed.” King Salman International Airport Development Company (KSIADC) has signed key partnerships with the Special Integrated Logistics Zone (SILZ) and FedEx to advance Saudi Arabia’s logistics and air cargo sector. These collaborations, announced during the Global Logistics Forum 2024, aim to position Riyadh as a major player in the global logistics landscape. STRENGTHENING SAUDI ARABIA’S INFRASTRUCTURE The collaboration with SILZ, Saudi Arabia’s fi rst special economic zone, will enhance operational coordination and develop critical infrastructure at King Salman International Airport. The partnership will signifi cantly boost Riyadh’s air cargo capabilities, leveraging the airport’s strategic location at the intersection of three continents. SILZ Chief Executive Dr Fadi Al-Buhairan stated that the partnership with King Salman International Airport is a pivotal step in strengthening Riyadh’s position as a regional and global hub for logistics and The new collaborations aim to elevate Riyadh’s role in global logistics, enhancing air cargo and supply chain effi ciency in line with Vision 2030 LOG_Nov2024_7-9_News_13422389.indd 7LOG_Nov2024_7-9_News_13422389.indd 724/10/2024 09:2224/10/2024 09:228www.logis tic smiddleeas t .comNOVEMBER 2024 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST UPDATE | NEWS DHL expands contract logistics portfolio to the UAE DHL Supply Chain’s expertise, customers will experience greater operational effi ciency, enhanced service levels, and improved fl exibility. Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding for the Middle East and Africa, highlighted the benefi ts of the integration. He explained, “Earlier this year, we completed the integration of Danzas AEI Emirates into DHL Global Forwarding, signifi cantly improving service effi ciency across the UAE, GCC, and MEA regions. Building on this success, DHL Supply Chain will now take over seven facilities from the DHL Global Forwarding portfolio and will directly operate them under their own brand, managing operations with a team of 600 dedicated logistics professionals.” The seamless transition positions DHL to deliver maximum value to clients through an expanded range of services tailored to specifi c sectors. By leveraging the expertise of its 600-strong logistics team and state- of-the-art facilities, DHL aims to strengthen partnerships and pave the way for sustained growth in the UAE. freight forwarding, and customs services already provided by DHL Global Forwarding. Enhanced warehousing, fulfi lment, and aftermarket services will now benefi t customers in sectors such as technology, automotive, aviation, energy, e-commerce, and fashion. Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, emphasised that the transfer represents a natural evolution in DHL’s regional strategy. He said, “With the increasing demand for comprehensive end-to-end supply chain solutions, expanding our contract logistics portfolio in this fast-growing region was a natural progression. Our established presence as a leader in forwarding and freight services now allows us to extend our contract logistics capabilities in the UAE even further.” EXPANDING CAPACITY IN THE UAE The strategic shift underscores DHL’s commitment to supporting multinationals and SMEs by addressing increasingly complex logistics requirements in the region. With DHL Group has announced the expansion of its contract logistics operations in the UAE by transferring key business operations from DHL Global Forwarding to DHL Supply Chain. The strategic shift responds to the region’s increasing need for seamless, end-to-end logistics solutions, further enhancing the Group’s ability to deliver high-quality services to customers across industries. MEETING EVOLVING CUSTOMER NEEDS As part of the transition, DHL Supply Chain will assume control of seven facilities previously managed by DHL Global Forwarding, bringing 600 experienced logistics specialists under its management. The move ensures uninterrupted operations and seamless service for existing customers, focusing on maintaining strong regional leadership and continuity in customer relationships. The UAE expansion aligns with DHL’s global strategy to meet the evolving demands of diverse industries. DHL Supply Chain’s contract logistics services will complement the existing cross-border transportation, DHL Group has enhanced its logistics operations in the UAE by transitioning key functions to DHL Supply Chain, promising seamless services across industries LOG_Nov2024_7-9_News_13422389.indd 8LOG_Nov2024_7-9_News_13422389.indd 824/10/2024 09:2324/10/2024 09:239www.logis tic smiddleeas t .comLOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | NOVEMBER 2024 NEWS | UPDATE 7X launches Waslah to transform logistics services Waslah and other upcoming digital innovations from 7X are set to solidify the company’s leadership in logistics technology and reinforce its position as a key player in the rapidly advancing logistics sector. FUTURE PLANS With a user-friendly interface and scalable features, Waslah is designed to grow alongside businesses, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving market. The platform’s robust analytics capabilities off er users valuable insights into shipping trends, delivery performance, and cost management, enabling data- driven decision-making. Additionally, Waslah supports sustainable practices by promoting eco-friendly delivery options and encouraging effi cient route optimisation. Looking ahead, 7X plans to continuously enhance Waslah with new features, including AI-powered forecasting tools and real-time inventory management. These innovations will further empower businesses to meet customer expectations. select the fastest routes, and reduce delivery costs by up to 40%. Exclusive discounts from its partners further enhance cost savings, making logistics more aff ordable for businesses of all sizes. EMPOWERING SMES TO SUCCEED HE Abdulla Mohammed Alashram, Group CEO of 7X, highlighted Waslah as a game- changing solution for businesses, SMEs, and individuals to effi ciently manage their logistics operations. He explained, “Waslah equips users with tools that simplify the complexities of shipping and last-mile delivery, making it easier to navigate the demands of e-commerce and other sectors. Our goal is to raise the standard for logistics operations by empowering customers with choice, fl exibility, and convenience in managing shipping needs.” Alashram further emphasised that Waslah refl ects 7X’s strategy to strengthen its foothold in local, regional, and global markets while maximising operational effi ciency and expanding the group’s portfolio. 7X has launched its new logistics platform, Waslah, to reshape logistics services in the UAE and beyond. Designed with a special focus on SMEs, Waslah off ers a multi-carrier solution that streamlines logistics operations while adapting to the industry’s rapidly evolving demands. OPTIMISING LOGISTICS OPERATIONS With the integration of advanced technology, Waslah enhances effi ciency by optimising route planning, consolidating shipments, and employing smart tracking solutions. The comprehensive platform allows businesses to manage their logistics needs seamlessly, giving them access to various delivery services domestically, regionally, and internationally. The platform leverages the extensive network of 7X’s delivery partners, including Emirates Post and EMX, off ering users greater fl exibility in choosing the best delivery options. Whether handling local or cross-border shipments, Waslah enables businesses to compare shipping options, 7X’s new platform, Waslah, is set to transform logistics for SMEs by off ering streamlined and cost- eff ective operations LOG_Nov2024_7-9_News_13422389.indd 9LOG_Nov2024_7-9_News_13422389.indd 924/10/2024 09:2324/10/2024 09:23Next >