Commitment vow

DHL reaffirmed its confidence in the kingdom and Bahrain International Airport (BIA) this week by signing a new contract to maintain its regional headquarters at the airport for a further eight years.

DHL has based its regional operations in Bahrain for more than 35 years. The new contract serves to underline the close working relationship between DHL and Bahrain and the strong partnership that has been fostered with the Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), which is owned by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company and the Civil Aviation Authority.

Moreover, it highlights the renewed confidence of major international businesses in Bahrain following the unrest earlier this year, economic analysts believe.

Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, chief executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), said: “I am delighted that DHL have extended their commitment to Bahrain, and would like to congratulate everyone at the Bahrain Airport Company for the excellent service and support provided to all of their customers and partners.
 
“DHL’s decision to maintain its regional hub in Bahrain shows the benefits offered by the kingdom for international businesses seeking to access the Gulf region, and the presence of key organisations such as them will help generate continued economic growth and jobs for all Bahrainis.”

DHL’s continued presence will not only strengthen the airport’s cargo service directly, but will also have a positive impact on the growth of the cargo and logistics supporting businesses.

BAC’s newly-appointed chairman, Khalid Al Rumaihi, said: “This deal is a key milestone for BAC in fulfilling its mandate set by Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, by securing the business of a major player and partner in the aviation industry with better terms as it works towards realising the commercial value and potential of the airport and strengthening Bahrain’s position as an aviation hub located in the centre of the Gulf region.”

The new deal was signed between BAC’s CEO, Gordon Dewar and DHL’s senior vice president, Garry Kemp. “We are delighted to extend our commitment to the Bahrain International Airport, which is a key partner for DHL and has been instrumental to our success in the region,” said Mr Kemp.

“Bahrain’s strategic location and excellent access via land, sea and air to the region, as well as its open economy and business facilitating approach, has continued to make it a solid base for our regional hub.”

Mr Dewar described the new contract with DHL as a ‘vital cornerstone’ for the company as it enters a new phase of commercial development. “We have had a longstanding relationship with DHL and we are looking forward to many more years of shared success,” he added.

Also present to mark the occasion were officials from BAC, DHL, EDB, Mumtalakat, the CAA, ground handlers, Bahrain Airport Services (BAS), Ministry of Interior’s airport functions officials and other dignitaries.

DHL Express has established a new direct flight connecting Cincinnati and the kingdom to facilitate increased trade between North America and Bahrain. The route shortens delivery time by one day.

DHL’s Bahrain hub is a key entry point into Middle East countries and it serves as a vital connectivity point for DHL’s global network. Each week, almost 100 flights are operated on behalf of DHL to and from Bahrain. These include regional flights and long-haul intercontinental flights.