New research has been released by DP World this week, coinciding with the Global Freight Summit in Dubai. The research indicates that despite geopolitical uncertainties, communication gaps, and heightened competition, over 60 per cent of freight forwarders expressed they were ‘very optimistic’ as we approach 2024.
The survey brought together insights from dozens of freight forwarders to learn more about their collective outlook on overcoming hurdles.
The survey highlighted that greater collaboration throughout the supply chain is required to boost efficiency, something with which 40 per cent of respondents agreed.
Additional key factors for resilience include reducing regulation (15%), embracing new technologies (12%), and a heightened focus on Electric Vehicles and last-mile delivery (10%).
The research showed 34% of respondents believe the majority of the supply chain is already digitalised, while 31% say they have achieved full digitalisation.
The role of technology was highlighted as a crucial enabler for more efficient supply chains, which is critical to future-proofing the industry.
The survey also looked at the importance of supporting small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the face of the current $2.5 trillion trade finance gap.
For 26 per cent of freight forwarders, improving access to trade finance is key to helping SMEs expand internationally, alongside improving technological literacy (14%).
Regarding operating sustainably, 59% of freight forwarders surveyed said they are actively exploring alternative modes of transport or offering emissions-tracking tools to their clients.
Commenting on the research, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “We are operating in an era of uncertainty, so the global supply chain industry must come together to build a more resilient future. Technology dictates how the world does business, so innovation will be vital to ensuring the seamless movement of goods around the globe. Amidst geopolitical uncertainties, heightened competition, regionalisation and rising inflation, the logistics sector must create new tools and solutions to navigate these economic headwinds. Strategic investments in technology, infrastructure, and pioneering new trade routes are essential for realizing a future supply chain that can overcome today’s challenges.”
BMW Group has announced its role as the VIP E-Mobility Provider for COP28 UAE, set to take place later this month.
As VIP E-Mobility Provider, BMW Group will deploy a fleet of BMW i7 and BMW iX, as well as BMW iX5 Hydrogen, for the exclusive use of VIP guests and officials during COP28.
BMW highlighted that its flagship BMW i7 has key components crafted using sustainably sourced solar electrons produced in the UAE by Emirates Global Aluminum, resulting in a “significant reduction in greenhouse emissions” during the production cycle.
Meanwhile, the BMW iX, it said, utilises circular design. It added that using “high-quality secondary materials” significantly reduces BMW Group’s vehicles’ carbon footprint.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen has recently successfully completed intensive hot-weather tests in the United Arab Emirates.
The pilot vehicle is highly suited to long journeys and short refueling stops, while also featuring a locally emission-free drive.
Subject to the corresponding framework conditions, its hydrogen fuel cell technology has the potential to be another pillar in the future BMW Group drive portfolio, it said.
Commenting on the announcement, Christian Bahoo, Global Head of Special Political Engagement at BMW Group, said: “The COP28 UAE Presidency’s vision correlates with BMW’s commitment to technology orientation solutions and the Paris Climate Agreement. At COP28, the BMW Group will present solutions and discuss the requirements which we consider necessary to achieve the transformation to sustainable mobility.”
Al-Futtaim Logistics has announced the official launch of its Aerospace Logistics division in the UAE. The inauguration, coincided with the Dubai Airshow 2023, and follows a soft launch at the MRO-AIME Middle East 2023.
These services, it shared, cater to a diverse clientele, including Airlines, Maintenance, Repair and overhaul (MRO) operators, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Parts Suppliers, and Asset Leasing Companies.
Its suite of solutions includes airside deliveries at major UAE airports, multiple carrier options, Technician Onboard Charters (TOC), and 24/7 centralised aerospace operations with global coverage.
In addition, the company said it provides storage solutions for customers that are compliant with The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and ASA-100 standards.
Commenting on the announcement, Dr. Raman Kumar, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Logistics, said: “We are pleased to launch our Aerospace Logistics division in the UAE. As part of a UAE-based conglomerate with a global network, we are uniquely positioned to deliver unmatched service quality and flexibility to meet the needs of our customers in this burgeoning sector. Driven by a customer-centric and solutions-oriented approach, our 24/7 AOG operations with 300+ stations, combined with our end-to-end solutions, including storage and distribution hubs within the UAE, make us the go-to partner for aerospace companies of any size.”
The company noted that Dubai is currently the world’s seventh-largest importer of parts for aircraft and spacecraft and said that over the next two decades, the Middle East is predicted to see 3.2% continued growth in the MRO services market.
With over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 95 countries and over 190 aircraft on static display, day two of Dubai Airshow witnessed the signing of various landmark deals and announcements.
New aircraft orders also continued during day two. This included EGYPTAIR announcing an order for ten new Airbus A350-900s, providing the airline with 25% less fuel burn and, in turn, reduced emissions.
Oman Air announced the order and delivery of the operator’s first 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF), its first dedicated cargo aircraft, while SCAT Airlines announced an order for seven Boeing 737-8 airplanes.
Ethiopian Airlines, meanwhile committed to ordering 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 20 Boeing 737 MAX airplanes, with an opportunity for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively, representing the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history.
Timothy Hawes, Managing Director of Tarsus Middle East, commented: “Day two of the Dubai Airshow 2023 has surpassed our expectations, setting a new standard for global aerospace events. The dynamic atmosphere was charged with ground-breaking deals and strategic partnerships, reflecting the vibrant evolution of the aerospace sector. The new innovations and significant deals not only highlighted the industry’s commitment to sustainable and efficient future growth, but also underscored the Airshow’s role as a catalyst for shaping the future of aerospace. We are excited and optimistic about the potential collaborations and developments that the next few days will bring, as we continue to foster a space for innovation and progress.”
Day two also saw the signing of an agreement between Airbus and Mubadala to provide internship opportunities for Emirati senior university students in engineering.
Over the next three years, twelve Emirati senior engineering students will be hosted at the Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France, where they will perform their internship under the supervision of Airbus experts and specialists.
At the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) pavilion, ANRA Technologies unveiled its Vertiport Management System (VMS), for managing Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Urban Air Mobility (UAM) aircraft at vertiport facilities.
This web-based platform, it says, addresses the growing demand for digital solutions in autonomous VTOL aircraft operations, ensuring safe and efficient vertiport services by coordinating real-time data exchange.
Agility has been named one of the top leaders in sustainability in the region by Forbes Middle East. The company was highlighted for its green warehousing, clean energy, and environmentally-focused investment that reduces environmental impact.
The Forbes’ new Middle East Sustainability 100 list ranked Agility as the number three sustainability leader in the transport and logistics sector, and one of only three Kuwait-based companies on the Forbes list.
Agility said it is pioneering the use of sustainable materials, designs and systems in the development and construction of industrial infrastructure in the Middle East and Africa.
A warehouse at the Agility Logistics Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was the first warehousing facility in the Middle East and North Africa to receive EDGE Advanced “green building” certification.
The company’s warehousing complex in Cote d’Ivoire is the first in West Africa to receive EDGE Advanced certification, an IFC-backed standard for buildings at least 40% more energy-efficient than the market.
On the investment side of this, Agility Ventures has invested in startups and technology companies with innovations or disruptive business models with a primary focus or quantifiable positive impact on the environment and social conditions.
Among the technologies it has invested in are clean hybrid powertrain systems for long-haul trucking, electrified last-mile vehicles, EV charging networks and infrastructure, and solar thermal energy systems.
Agility’s operating businesses are following their own sustainability roadmaps. Agility’s Menzies Aviation business, the world’s largest provider of aviation ground services, and its Tristar liquid logistics affiliate are piloting industry efforts to green ground, air and ocean fleets, and develop storage and distribution infrastructure required for the transition to cleaner fuels.
Agility is also being recognized for its investments in its communities. In the last decade, Agility has reached more than 1 million people in need, including deploying resources in the aftermath of natural disasters and complex humanitarian emergencies, as well as a long-standing focus on youth education, entrepreneurship, employment, and digital skilling. Agility supports education and training initiatives for young people in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Cote D’Ivoire, Ghana, India and Egypt, among other countries.
Tarek Sultan, Agility Vice Chairman, said: “Agility has been investing in ESG leadership for nearly 20 years; it’s a core part of our culture, commitment, and value proposition to shareholders, customers, employees, and communities. We’re honored by the acknowledgement from Forbes, and thank every one of our employees and stakeholders for being such a critical part of our sustainability journey.”
Following its first appearance at the Cannes Film Festival in May, THE ICON, the first battery-powered maritime vehicle of its kind, recently debuted in the Gulf region at the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show, which took place at ADNEC Marina from November 9-12.
With a length of 13.15 metres and a top speed of 30 knots, the vehicle is the pioneer of a new type of watercraft with battery-electric propulsion.
Conceptualised by BMW and designed by Designworks, a subsidiary of the BMW Group with studios in Los Angeles, Munich and Shanghai, the concept was developed and realised by yacht manufacturer TYDE.
While maritime electromobility has typically been limited to smaller, slower vehicles with a comparatively short range, the segment of larger and faster boats with a longer range is 100 per cent dominated by models with combustion engines.
THE ICON redefines the relationship between the dimensions, size, top speed, and range of an electrically powered watercraft.
This is made possible by underwater wings, so-called hydrofoils, which reduce energy requirements by up to 80 per cent compared to a conventional hull.
The foiling technique, in which the vehicle rests on wings below the water level while the hull floats above the water surface, also achieves greater ride comfort and higher speed.
Two 100 kW electric motors each convert the energy content of 240 kWh provided by six batteries of the BMW i3 into a range of over 50 nautical miles (100 kilometres) at a speed of 24 knots. The maximum speed is 30 knots (55 km/h). With its innovative drive and thanks to foiling technology, THE ICON enables almost silent cruising without vibrations or slamming.
The particularly low construction and hull proportions allow the interior to be used across the entire beam of 4.5 metres.
The centre spine, which rises from the hull on both sides and forms the backbone of the watercraft, houses the technical components, such as modern LED light strips at the bow and stern, as well as the charging connection points.
The superstructure body features an origami lightweight structure and its height allows passengers to maintain an effortless upright posture throughout the interior.
As the most emotional and sculptural element in THE ICON’s design, it contrasts with the prismatic windows and roof surfaces. The body, which supports both the roof and the glass walls, is in a two-tone turquoise and golden colour scheme inspired by the colours of the sea.
TYDE is represented in the Gulf region by THE SILENT POWER, which was present at the Innovation Hub at the recently concluded Abu Dhabi International Boat Show.
Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with ADB SAFEGATE to facilitate collaboration, discussions, and trials of advanced technological solutions.
As per the agreement, both parties will collaboratively discuss and trial technical products in the field of airside digitisation in terms of automation, monitoring, and preventive maintenance.
There will be potential benefits from advanced and recent technologies, including artificial Intelligence, machine learning, advanced video analytics, virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, the internet of things, and digital twins.
This, they shared, is in addition to the possibility of utilising 5G communication technology in the airport apron area, as well as possible innovative enhancements for existing products such as the Airport Management Platform (AMP), Visual Docking Guidance System (VDGS), SafeControl Apron Management (SAM), and the Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System (ALCMS).
Osama Al-Fawaz RAC’s CIO, said: “It is just the beginning of more diverse future plans and initiatives to collaborate with our global partners. We believe that technology is now the deciding factor in air operations management in most airports around the world.”
Laurent Dubois, CEO, ADB SAFEGATE, commented: “Partnering with RAC, the operator of one of the region’s most significant airports, signifies a major milestone. It demonstrates RAC’s visionary approach and eagerness to adopt the latest advancements in airport management. We are confident that this collaboration will serve as a model for the industry, setting new standards for operational excellence.”
The two shared that this is likely to be the start of more diverse plans and initiatives to collaborate on technological solutions. Future areas likely to be explored include energy efficiency, predictive maintenance, and seamless passenger flow.
Riyadh Air and Microsoft have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, it has been announced.
As part of the agreement, Riyadh Air selected Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform as its preferred platform.
The announcement, they said, will see both organisations collaborating to leverage the potential of cutting-edge technologies such as Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, copilot experiences, the Metaverse, and Virtual Reality to enhance Riyadh Air’s offerings, services, and operational models.
Adam Boukadida, Chief Finance Officer, Riyadh Air, commented: “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Microsoft as we embark on an accelerated digital enablement journey to fuel the growth and innovation within the aviation industry. Leveraging the robust Microsoft Azure platform is just the beginning; we are poised to tap into the vast network of Microsoft partnerships and harness the remarkable AI capabilities offered through Microsoft’s comprehensive suite of services & solutions, empowering Riyadh Air to grow & thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. By embracing Microsoft’s platform and solution capabilities, we aim to build a unique customer and employee experience and expedite our progress in achieving our sustainability targets.”
Riyadh Air and Microsoft will also jointly establish a Centre of Excellence to provide a structured framework for driving innovation and delivering substantial business benefits for both organsations.
The partnership also sees both parties forming a dedicated board that will actively drive efforts aligned with the Kingdom’s national sustainability agenda.
Turki Badhris, Acting General Manager at Microsoft Arabia, said: “In adopting a cloud-first approach, Riyadh Air is paving the way for the creation of intelligent new solutions that will not only reimagine new ways of working and doing business but also revolutionize the experiences of its employees and customers.”
Microsoft will also extend its technical expertise to Riyadh Air by offering guidance in architecture design, scalability, and security reviews.
