Driving business forward: DHL Express UAE on scaling, service and sustainability
We bring you an exclusive interview with Mahmoud Haj Hussein, Managing Director DHL Express UAE
GSC: How does DHL differentiate itself in the logistics and e-commerce space?
MHH: In a competitive logistics landscape, speed and reliability are no longer enough. Our differentiation lies in how we combine those fundamentals with tech-powered agility and environmental responsibility. DHL Express recognises the potential of SMEs as global players, providing them access to advanced logistics capabilities once reserved for larger enterprises. We’re not just delivering parcels: we’re enabling businesses to scale internationally, enhance customer experience, and grow sustainably.
GSC: Who are your key customers, and how are you helping them scale in the region?
MHH: We work with ambitious, growth-focused businesses that are looking to expand their reach beyond borders. Our solutions are designed to simplify international trade by offering streamlined customs, automation, and dedicated support. Whether it’s a local brand scaling up or an online business reaching new markets, we make global shipping faster, more transparent, and tailored to their needs.
Fast growing sectors currently are e-commerce and Life Science. And we also focus on empowering SMEs. Through partnerships with RAKEZ and SHERAA, we offer tailored logistics support, onboarding incentives, and credit facilities. Our infrastructure investments and digital tools enable these businesses to scale efficiently across the region and beyond.
GSC: Can you describe some of the positive outcomes for the company over the past few years?
MHH: We’ve seen significant growth in cross-border volumes, driven by increased SME engagement and a surge in e-commerce businesses tapping into international markets. To give an example: DHL currently handles 4,000 flight movements from the UAE every month, which is an increase of 30 per cent over the past twelve months.
To support our growth, we’ve expanded our facilities, optimized delivery lanes, and strengthened our digital platforms. Our sustainability initiatives – especially GoGreen Plus – are gaining strong traction, as more customers seek greener logistics solutions.
GSC:What are some of the ways in which DHL hopes to expand in this region?
MHH: Our expansion focuses on network efficiency, digital capability, and sustainability. We’re increasing regional connectivity for faster cross-border trade and investing in clean-energy solutions like sustainable aviation. At the same time, we’re using digital solutions to help make the logistics experience more seamless and accessible for SMEs and e-commerce businesses.
GSC: Please describe some of your new initiatives and how they’ve been received by the market?
MHH: Our GoGreen Plus carbon insetting initiative has seen strong uptake, reflecting a clear shift in customer priorities toward more sustainable shipping. Businesses are increasingly looking to align their operations with environmental goals, and GoGreen Plus enables them to reduce emissions at the source – through sustainable aviation fuel – rather than simply offsetting them. The response from the market has been highly positive, with both established brands and growing businesses embracing the opportunity to make their logistics more climate conscious.
GSC: What is the significance of DHL’s participation at Seamless 2025, and what does this event represent for your business?
MHH: Seamless 2025 is not just another trade event as it reflects the region’s transformation into a digitally enabled, entrepreneur-driven economy. For DHL Express, it is an opportunity to reinforce our role as a growth partner for SMEs and e-commerce businesses shaping the future of trade. Events like this align with our commitment to national visions such as “We the UAE 2031,” emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. DHL goes beyond logistics, offering scalable infrastructure, digital tools, and green solutions that help businesses thrive globally.
