DHL has announced the launch of its Mobile Middle East and Africa (MEA) Innovation Center in Dubai, which it said is the "first-of-its-kind" 450-sq m facility located in the Logistics District at Dubai South.

In a statement, the logistics provider said the MEA Innovation Center will present a collaborative platform for customers, partners and other thought leaders to solve complex logistics challenges, learn about the latest trends in logistics, and network with industry innovators across the MEA region.

“Dubai epitomizes disruptive thinking and celebrates innovation. Therefore, it is a pleasure for Dubai South to be home to the DHL Mobile MEA Innovation Center in the Logistics District, testifying its pre-eminent position as the local and regional hub for the sector. The Center’s conception and innovative execution are aligned with Dubai South’s ambition to be a next-generation, innovations-led logistics hub for the region,” commented Mohsen Ahmad Alawadhi, CEO of Logistics District, Dubai South.

The Mobile MEA Innovation Center will host a selection of exhibits built around key technologies that will "shape the logistics industry in the future," according to DHL, alongside proof of concepts successfully implemented in DHL’s operations with a focus on the topics of IoT, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Bionic Enhancement and Data Analytics across the domains of supply chain analytics, warehouse digital twins and last mile delivery optimization. 

“The Innovation Centers are the showpiece of DHL’s Innovation program, which features its own trend research division, proven innovation workshop methodologies, and a calendar of thought leadership events that deep dive into technologies set to impact the logistics industry,” said Matthias Heutger, SVP Global Head of Innovation & Commercial Development for DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation.

The Mobile MEA Innovation Center is DHL’s fourth innovation center globally – after Chicago, USA; Cologne, Germany; and Singapore; and the first completely mobile one.

DHL said the Mobile MEA Innovation Center is a modular building that was shipped to Dubai in containers from Germany, before being assembled on site in Dubai South.

The facility is expected to stay in Dubai until 2022, then move to Qatar, the next location on its journey across the MEA region, and is expected to continue its journey through 2027.