Dubai, UAE – Have you ever wondered how a package travels thousands of miles seamlessly in today’s fast-paced world? For Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding MEA, the answer is a blend of cutting-edge technologies like blockchain and AI with localized strategies.
In an exclusive interview with TRENDS, Diallo shared his insights on the global supply chain and the evolving role of tech.
How has your global perspective influenced your leadership of DHL in the Middle East and Africa?
Success lies in balancing universal principles with local realities. It is crucial to leverage this balance to create globally effective strategies tailored to regional needs.
Each market in this diverse region offers unique opportunities and challenges, whether rapidly growing e-commerce in the Gulf or infrastructure development in Africa. Viewing challenges as opportunities fosters innovation aligned with the region’s cultural and economic landscapes. Bridging global best practices with local expertise enables us to meet customer needs, provide excellent service, and contribute to sustainable growth in the communities we serve.
What strategies have you used to drive growth and performance in this diverse region?
Our strategy centers on talent, technology, and sustainability. Digital transformation drives operations through investments in big data analytics, automation, cloud computing, machine learning, blockchain, robotics, and IoT. These innovations streamline supply chain processes, reduce delivery times, and enhance efficiency, keeping us ahead in a fast-evolving logistics landscape.
Talent development is also critical; we focus on building local capabilities and equipping our teams to navigate the complexities of the region.
Moreover, when it comes to sustainability, we aim to significantly increase the use of sustainable fuels and clean technologies by 2030.
For instance, we are solarizing our Dubai facilities and have launched the region’s first EV and battery logistics hub in Dubai to support the EV circular economy.
As the founder of Saloodo!, DHL’s online logistics platform, how do you see online platforms shaping the logistics industry’s future?
In emerging markets, where fragmented logistics networks pose challenges, Saloodo! connects shippers with carriers in real time, streamlining operations, reducing costs, and accelerating delivery times.
Saloodo! empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing tools to manage shipments, track deliveries, and access competitive rates.
The platform’s use of data and automation further enhances supply chain efficiency. Features like predictive analytics and real-time tracking improve decision-making and customer experience – the goals are bridging logistics gaps and helping businesses thrive in competitive markets.
With the rise of regionalized supply chains in MEA, how is DHL adapting?
DHL Global Forwarding MEA is strengthening local infrastructure and enhancing its network of Ocean Freight (OFR) gateways. Key hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Casablanca, Salalah, Nairobi, Durban, and Tema serve as vital nodes for regional distribution. Additionally, hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, and Addis Ababa improve connectivity within the MEA region.
The acquisition of Danzas has further enhanced our regional capabilities by expanding our logistics footprint. This dual approach—strengthening regional infrastructure while maintaining global integration—ensures DHL meets businesses’ evolving needs and provides flexibility for them to thrive in both regional and international markets.
As cross-border e-commerce grows, how is DHL preparing for the demand in MEA?
DHL is addressing cross-border e-commerce growth through advanced technologies and multimodal solutions. We have developed routes that are up to 20 days faster than traditional detours caused by the Red Sea crisis, allowing clients to maintain lean inventory while keeping supply chains agile. For example, we introduced self-driving robots like Picking, which autonomously learn and share efficient travel routes.
We also partner with last-mile delivery providers such as Emirates Post, Qatar Post, and Saudi Post to enable reliable last-mile logistics. These efforts are supported by robust capacity solutions, particularly from China, to secure fast distribution. Predictive analytics and cloud-based supply chain management solutions further unify transportation, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations.
Sustainability remains a priority. Our GoGreen Plus service offers carbon-neutral freight options, while the myDHLi platform provides tools to track and reduce CO2e emissions.
What excites you most about the future of logistics?
The future of logistics is a convergence of technology, sustainability, and human ingenuity. What excites me most is how these elements are transforming supply chains into more innovative, greener, and inclusive systems. Leveraging connectivity and technologies like AI, self-driving robots, and blockchain, DHL sets new benchmarks for operational excellence and transparency.
However, logistics remains a people-driven industry. At DHL, we emphasize innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. Employee development programs empower teams to adapt to market changes and uphold our commitment to excellence.
I believe our people are our greatest asset. By uniting technological advancements with employee development and sustainability, we’re shaping the future of logistics while creating an environment where employees thrive and make meaningful contributions. It’s this balance that makes me optimistic about what lies ahead.
