DB Schenker builds second logistics centre in Dubai

Supply chain management and logistics solutions provider DB Schenker will build its second logistics centre in Dubai, located next to world's largest airport.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of this new “state-of-the-art” logistics centre took place under the patronage of Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation.

A large high-level delegation from Dubai South was in attendance, as were Tom Schmitt (CCO and member of the DB Schenker Board for Contract Logistics), Karl-Heinz Emberger (CEO of DB Schenker MEA), Ako Djaf (head of Contract Logistics / SCM for Middle East and Africa) and numerous other guests.

The 35,000 sqm temperature-controlled warehouse, with a 3,500 sqm mezzanine area for value-added services, is the largest investment in the history of DB Schenker Middle East and Africa. The facility will also be the first mega site of DB Schenker globally to be supplied with 100% solar power. The project is the second of three phases in contract logistics development in Dubai, with the ultimate goal of building 80,000 sqm of logistics space for DB Schenker by 2021. The facility is planned to open in the first quarter of 2019.

“Dubai is our regional hub for the Middle East and Africa and investing in Dubai South was a strategic step to strengthen our network and to complete DB Schenker’s service coverage in UAE,” said Ako Djaf, DB Schenker, head of Contract Logistics / SCM for Middle East and Africa.

“Neighbouring the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, and adjacent to one of the world’s largest container ports, Jebel Ali Port, this investment clearly cements DB Schenker’s commitment for hyper growth in the region and demonstrates our commitment to offer our customers not only best in class logistics solutions but also the best connectivity, speed to market as well as excellent logistics infrastructure,” he added.

The Logistics District is an 18 square kilometres free zone that serves every transport mode, logistics need and value-adding operation in the supply chain.