Dubai's Logistics Industry registering 15% growth, says NAFL

Dubai’s freight logistics industry is registering 15% annual growth as mega projects feed supply demand, according to the President of the UAE’s National Association of Freight Logistics (NAFL).

And Captain Mansoor Y.A. Ghafoor says the advent of Dubai Maritime City and this year’s Seatrade Maritime Middle East exhibition and conference will further drive growth as the reputation of Dubai as a logistics hub spreads.

“Growth is certain, largely in Dubai with the creation of major projects spurring the economy,” said Capt. Mansoor. “The logistics industry is bound to benefit as it affects every other business segment.”

The NAFL currently has 130 members which together control 90% of Dubai’s freight traffic.

“We are selective in who we award membership too though we anticipate the numbers will increase in line with the development of the industry here. Dubai has not yet fully achieved its potential as a logistics hub – though it has all the necessary pre-requisites such as world-class ports and airports.

“Education is now the key and we envisage the creation of Dubai Maritime City and the staging of Seatrade Maritime Middle East in Dubai this December will help spread the word.”

The NAFL, which has been operating for 12 years, says it is now strongly encouraging its members to participate in Seatrade Maritime Middle East 2004, which will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from December 6-8. The event is set to triple in size on last year to more than 2,400 square metres with some 200-300 exhibitors.

“What is interesting is that this year Seatrade Maritime Middle East will also have a stronger focus on the cruise industry. This is an emerging sector in Dubai and one which will also impact the freight logistics industry, though perhaps to a lesser degree than conventional shipping,” said Capt. Mansoor.

The NAFL is one of a growing lobby of professional organisations supporting Seatrade Maritime Middle East, which is being held under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister. Other supporting bodies are: the Dubai Shipping Agents Association; the Indian National Shipowners’ Association; the Nautical Institute UAE Branch and the UAE National Ship Suppliers’ Association.

The event is sponsored by Dubai Maritime City; Dubai Port Authority, the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai and the Islamic Republic Of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL).