Global Shipping readies new hub

Dubai: Global Shipping and Logistics (GSL) will launch its new Dh130 million warehousing and distribution centre at Dubai Investment Park (DIP) at the end of April.

Khalid Al Shirawi, executive director of GSL, a subsidiary of the giant Al Shirawi Group Oasis Investment Company (OIC), told Gulf News that the supply chain has 12 per cent of the UAE market in 2005. He expected the industry to witness robust growth in the next few years in line with the rapid economic development of Dubai and the huge expansion plans for Jebel Ali port.

"GSL was one of the first companies to invest in the Dubai Investment Park," he added. Al Shirawi said the Al Shirawi Group is planning a major investment in Dubai Logistics City

He said that the first phase of the project, which will comprise two buildings comprising 100,000 square metres of mixed-use storage, will be handed over by the contractors in about 10 weeks.

"We are very excited as the first phase of the project nears its conclusion, as this will add a new dimension to warehousing solutions in the UAE and will provide an exceptional option for customers seeking qualified logistics partners with on-site management capabilities," said Al Shirawi.

"The new facility located close the new Jebel Ali Airport has already attracted interest from a number of local and multinational companies, particularly those with diversified business interests which could range from frozen foods to furniture and who are looking for a multi-offering from one location," he added.

Mike Lee, general manager of the new project, said that the Dh130 million investment will enable GSL to offer value for money logistics to the UAE community, covering industry verticals such as retail, fashion, FMCG, electronics, automotive and construction.

"Our cold store facility will be one of the most modern and largest in the UAE, offering 8500 pallet positions of frozen (minus 25 degree centigrade) storage for use" said Lee.

"Our investment in people and technology will put us at the leading edge of the service industry, while our technology in the Cold Store will enable our customers to monitor the temperature of their stocks over the internet".

Khalid Al Shirawi, executive director of Global Shipping and Logistics, said he expected the logistics industry to witness robust growth in the next few years in line with the rapid economic development of Dubai and the huge expansion plans for Jebel Ali port.