DHL Global Forwarding, in partnership with Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), has officially opened a new logistics facility at the Ras Bufontas Free Zone, significantly expanding its operational footprint in the country. The inauguration reinforces Qatar’s growing status as a premier destination for global logistics operators seeking a strategic base in the region.
The opening ceremony was attended by senior officials including Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, chairman of Al Faisal Holding and shareholder of DHL Global Forwarding Qatar; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, CEO of QFZ; and Samer Kaissi, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding’s Gulf Cluster.
Strategic Location and Services
The new DHL facility spans more than 1,200 square metres and is designed to function as a regional distribution warehouse. It will specialise in air freight consolidation services, supporting both regional and global distribution networks. Its strategic location near Hamad International Airport allows it to capitalise on Qatar’s advanced transport infrastructure and efficient customs processing.
From the new base, DHL Global Forwarding will provide a comprehensive suite of services. These include air, sea, and land logistics, marine shipping agent operations, general warehousing, and customs brokerage, further strengthening Qatar’s appeal as a competitive centre for high-value logistics.
Reinforcing Qatar’s Logistics Ambitions
Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani described the inauguration as a strategic move to bolster Qatar’s position as a high-value logistics hub. He stated that having a global leader like DHL will improve operational capacity, enhance specialised warehousing, and reinforce multimodal connectivity.
“This investment will also drive our transition from a transit hub to an integrated solutions platform,” he said, explaining it would create new growth prospects and connect the region to markets in Africa and Asia. These developments support the wider trend where Gulf states are now a key pillar of regional and global stability despite global challenges.
Expanding Multimodal Capabilities
Samer Kaissi highlighted Qatar’s crucial role in DHL’s regional logistics strategy, particularly as the company expands its multimodal capabilities across the GCC. While Hamad Port has long been a vital part of its network for east-west trade, the new facility improves air freight connectivity.
“With our new facility in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, located close to the airport, we are enhancing our airfreight capabilities,” Kaissi said. He noted this will enable more resilient and scalable logistics solutions, especially for the growing GCC-Africa trade corridors. The move is also expected to provide greater flexibility for critical sectors such as life sciences, energy, and e-commerce, aligning with national goals where Qatar and Tajikistan have discussed strengthening economic and trade co-operation.
The establishment of the DHL facility is a key development in Qatar’s logistics sector growth. It aligns with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to position the state as a hub for sustainable and innovation-led industrial activity.
