Dubai’s Dnata Leads $110 Million Global Logistics Expansion
Dnata, a globally recognized air services provider and a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, has unveiled a major infrastructure expansion initiative involving an investment of $110 million. This ambitious move is intended to enhance its operational capacity, improve automation and sustainability, and reinforce its presence across key regions worldwide. The latest investment includes significant developments in The Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Iraq, all scheduled to go live in 2025. These new facilities mark a critical step forward in meeting evolving supply chain demands and customer expectations.
Strategic Global Growth Plans Unfold for 2025 Launch
As the aviation logistics landscape transforms, Dnata has chosen to respond proactively. With a focus on cargo and logistics operations, the company is investing in scalable and energy-efficient infrastructure that supports long-term operational excellence. The newly planned developments reflect a future-ready mindset, with each project integrating the latest technology to improve performance and flexibility.
According to Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, CEO of Airport Operations at Dnata, the goal of the investment is to align with global supply chain evolution while prioritizing innovation. He emphasized that the company is targeting infrastructure that not only meets current demands but is adaptable enough for future challenges. This includes automation, modular design, and digital visibility, with a strong emphasis on reducing environmental impact and enhancing energy efficiency.
Amsterdam Cargo City to Set New Standards in Logistics
The largest share of Dnata’s global investment is being allocated to the construction of a fully automated cargo centre in Amsterdam. Known as Dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, the project is being developed at Schiphol Airport (AMS) and represents a $70 million investment. The 61,000 square metre facility is expected to become operational in July 2025.
The new cargo hub will be capable of handling more than 850,000 tonnes of cargo annually, making it one of the most advanced logistics centres in the region. This facility is designed around cutting-edge technologies such as automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). These systems will manage flexible and scalable transportation of unit load devices (ULDs) within the terminal, significantly improving operational efficiency.
Additionally, Dnata Cargo City Amsterdam will feature full air waybill (AWB) control across the entire facility. This feature ensures comprehensive oversight of shipment documentation and movement. Operations will be centrally coordinated via the Dnata Cargo Control Centre, enabling real-time process monitoring and coordination. Smart gates will automatically scan incoming consignments using 3D imaging to record volume and weight, enhancing the speed and accuracy of cargo handling.
Another advanced feature is the forklift guidance system, which optimizes the movement and placement of cargo within the warehouse. This innovation is complemented by 100% weight and dimension checks for all shipments, promoting precision and compliance with international logistics standards.
Modern Facility in Erbil Brings Significant Capacity Increase
In Erbil, Iraq, Dnata is constructing a 20,000 square metre cargo facility that marks a significant step in its regional operations. Backed by a $15 million investment, the new centre is expected to become operational by July 2025. The expansion will result in a threefold increase in Dnata’s handling capacity in Iraq, reaching up to 66,000 tonnes annually.
One of the core features of the Erbil facility is the integration of dnata’s proprietary ‘OneCargo’ system. This cloud-based platform automates key operational and business functions, including safety monitoring, quality control, reporting, and unit load device management. With this digital infrastructure, Dnata aims to improve process visibility, enhance decision-making, and ensure consistent compliance with industry standards.
By leveraging automation and centralized data, the Erbil centre is expected to offer improved reliability and service efficiency for cargo customers in the region. The investment also positions Dnata to respond more effectively to the growing logistics demands of Iraq and its neighbouring markets.
New Cargo Hub in Dubai South Enhances UAE Logistics Role
In line with the UAE’s strategic vision to strengthen its global logistics profile, Dnata is investing $27 million in a new cargo centre in Dubai. Located in Dubai South, the upcoming 57,000 square metre facility is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. The centre will have the capacity to handle up to 400,000 tonnes of cargo annually.
The warehouse will be fully temperature-controlled, supporting the storage and movement of a wide range of goods, including perishable and sensitive items. The facility will also include both very narrow and wide aisle racking systems, allowing for maximum use of vertical space and optimized storage density. Dedicated truck loading and offloading zones will help streamline vehicle movement and reduce turnaround time.
By building this new facility, Dnata is reinforcing its role as a key logistics partner in the UAE. The project aligns with Dubai’s long-standing ambition to remain a global hub for air cargo and trade. Once operational, the Dubai South cargo centre is expected to contribute to the UAE’s broader logistics and transport sector by enhancing its capacity to support regional and international cargo flows.
Technology and Automation at the Heart of All Projects
A unifying theme across all three new Dnata developments is the focus on automation and technology. From automated guided vehicles in Amsterdam to the integrated One Cargo platform in Erbil and the temperature-controlled design in Dubai, each facility represents a leap forward in digital transformation.
Automation is not merely a convenience for Dnata—it is a critical component of its strategic plan. By reducing manual handling and improving process visibility, Dnata can better meet customer expectations for speed, accuracy, and reliability. Real-time tracking, smart systems, and cloud-based coordination tools are enabling a level of efficiency that was previously difficult to achieve in traditional cargo handling environments.
This approach also supports scalability. As global trade volumes fluctuate and customer demands shift, Dnata’s modular facility designs and integrated systems allow for seamless adaptation. Future technology upgrades can be incorporated without major disruptions, ensuring the infrastructure remains relevant for years to come.
Sustainability Embedded in Future-Ready Infrastructure
Sustainability is another key pillar of Dnata’s infrastructure strategy. Each new facility has been designed with energy-efficient features to reduce the environmental footprint of its operations. Smart lighting systems, low-emission technologies, and optimized building designs are expected to contribute to long-term reductions in energy usage and carbon emissions.
In Amsterdam, the use of automated vehicles and digital documentation is expected to minimize waste and enhance resource efficiency. Similarly, the new facility in Dubai will employ temperature controls and sustainable storage practices, ensuring that cargo handling processes align with the company’s environmental goals.
For Dnata, sustainability is more than a regulatory requirement—it is a business imperative. As global attention turns to climate responsibility, logistics companies are expected to play a proactive role in minimizing ecological impact. By embedding sustainability into its infrastructure from the ground up, Dnata is positioning itself as a forward-thinking leader in environmentally responsible logistics.
Long-Term Strategy Supports Growth and Resilience
The $110 million investment represents more than a collection of individual projects. It is part of dnata’s long-term strategy to build a resilient, data-driven, and globally connected logistics network. In an era where global supply chains are becoming increasingly complex, agility and adaptability are essential for continued success.
Dnata’s approach emphasizes not only operational excellence but also strategic positioning. By investing in key locations across Europe, the Middle East, and the Gulf region, the company is strengthening its global footprint. These infrastructure upgrades will enhance dnata’s ability to respond quickly to emerging market demands, provide faster turnaround for shipments, and maintain high standards of service.
Sauvé-Hopkins stated that the facilities are designed to deliver measurable gains in performance, traceability, and resource efficiency. They represent a deliberate move to elevate the quality of service while ensuring the company remains competitive in a fast-evolving industry.
Global Vision Meets Local Execution in Cargo Logistics
While the scale of Dnata’s expansion is global, the execution of each project is tailored to the local context. In Amsterdam, the focus is on leveraging technology to manage large volumes of international cargo. In Erbil, the emphasis is on digital transformation and capacity building. In Dubai, the goal is to support the UAE’s role as a logistics hub through modern infrastructure.
This balanced approach demonstrates dnata’s understanding of regional market dynamics. Each facility is designed to address specific operational challenges while contributing to the company’s global strategy. By aligning local capabilities with a unified vision, dnata is reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking logistics partner.
Future-Ready Logistics Begin with Today’s Smart Investments
Dnata’s $110 million infrastructure investment signals a major commitment to the future of global logistics. With projects underway in The Netherlands, Iraq, and the UAE, the company is laying the foundation for a more efficient, sustainable, and data-driven cargo operation. These developments are not just about expanding capacity—they represent a vision for smarter logistics in a connected world.
As the industry continues to evolve, dnata’s integrated approach to technology, sustainability, and regional development positions it well for long-term success. By investing today, dnata is preparing itself—and its partners—for the logistics challenges of tomorrow.
