Dubai: Dubai Logistics City (DLC), part of the multi-modal integrated logistics platform in Dubai World Central (DWC) - a 140 square kilometre urban land development in south-west Dubai - has licensed its first logistics operator to commence operations this month.

RSA Logistics DWC LLC, a Dubai-based logistics company, has completed the construction of its 25,000 square metre distribution centre in a record 12 months.

Located within DLC's contract logistics area - in close proximity to DWC-Al Maktoum International Airport, and built on a 65,000 square metre plot, the RSA Logistics facility is equipped with 26,585 pallet positions.

The 21.5 square kilometre Dubai Logistics City is part of the Dubai Government's 2015 strategy to develop the emirate's transport and logistics services and capitalise on its geographical location to make Dubai a regional hub for logistics.

"The fact that the first company to commence operations at DLC is a home-grown logistics organisation speaks of Dubai's initiative to take a lead in all business sectors," said Rashid Bu Qara'a, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Aviation City Corporation.

"The opening of RSA Logistics' facility is a first step for DLC in becoming a multi-modal logistics hub, not just for the UAE but for the entire wider region.

"Our success is measured by the substantial number of international logistics companies that have signed up and are constructing their respective facilities at DLC and during this year we will announce their individual openings," said Bu Qara'a.

The RSA Logistics Distribution Centre will capitalise on DLC's multi-modal integrated logistics approach and easy accessibility to the DWC-Al Maktoum International Airport, the Jebel Ali Port - the world's seventh largest container port - and extensive road networks that serve both the UAE and nearby Gulf Cooperation Council states.

"RSA Logistics' DLC facility will maximise the use of all sea, air and land movements as it will ensure minimal cargo movement and result in a reduction of unnecessary transportation costs," said Kirit Mehta, Director of Marketing of RSA Logistics.

"We will be capable of offering a number of value-added services beyond the traditional warehousing and fulfilment services such as packaging, re-packing, assembly, inspection and quality control. All our warehouse facilities will use a warehouse management system with dynamic administration.

"Such advanced application manages all warehousing processes, including receiving, put-away, replenishment, picking, packing, labelling and shipping."

The design features of the RSA Logistics facility include web-enabled inventory management systems, support complete stock management, supply chain visibility, the latest mechanical handling equipment for advanced logistics.