How emergencies impact air cargo logistics

Despite being frequently exposed to uncertainty and disruption, the Middle East region continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and preparedness. From governments to private enterprises, the logistics, air cargo and supply chain sectors have played a significant role in ensuring stability in the region.

-Dr. Shehara Fernando

Governments and private sector players worked together to overcome transportation barriers, address workforce shortages and navigate evolving regulations.

Airports and seaports remained operational and logistics hubs across countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Qatar accelerated efforts to distribute essential supplies, medical equipment and food items, among others — often going beyond local needs to support neighbouring countries as well.

What truly stood out was the unwavering commitment of the industries to ensure that even in the face of personal risk, services were delivered without compromise. The investment by firms in the Middle East region in logistics infrastructure, innovation, and digital transformation paid dividends, allowing real-time tracking, efficient customs processing, and adaptive routing strategies.

This collective response not only mitigated the immediate impact of the recent health crisis but also laid the groundwork for long-term resilience and sustainability.

As the world re-evaluates international supply chain strategies, the Middle East region has proven that agility, foresight, and collaboration are important drivers in navigating crises and can serve as a significant international bridge in the most uncertain times.

Ports, air routes helped maintain continuity

Amadou Diallo, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Middle East & Africa

DHL ensures emergency response in the Middle East through multimodal logistics, predictive analytics and bonded hubs providing flexibility and speed. We also capitalise on alternative ports and air routes to maintain continuity during a potential crisis. Our digital platforms, including myDHLi, offer real-time tracking and proactive communication.

Focus on response, innovation, readiness

Rizwan Kareem, Director, Air Freight Operations, ATS World

At ATS Shipping, we have created a dedicated Disaster Management Team prepared to respond in the face of crises across the Middle East. We have invested in technology enabling real-time tracking of cargo, secure data transfer and business continuity in the face of crises. The spotlight is always on readiness, innovation and responsiveness in order to keep critical supply chains operational when they are most needed.

Contingency plans to handle air freight

Sathish Babu, Country Manager, UAE, EFL GLOBAL, UAE

It is imperative we should have contingency plans to handle freight during the disasters as we learned that well with the pandemic, in terms of sourcing the shipments from the closest nations for UAE with their airports and ports to facilitate the shipments for incoming/outgoing. We find solutions with air charters for just-in-time shipments to meet the deadline for meeting customers’ end needs.

Preparedness at the core of emergency logistics

Abid Hamza, GM, Business Development, Fast Logistics Cargo FZCO

Preparedness is at the core of effective emergency logistics. In the Middle East, where geopolitical, climatic and infra challenges coexist, our response is built on certain key pillars. We conduct regular scenario planning to identify pain points and prepare contingency routes. We work with partners and humanitarian agencies to maintain access to pre-positioned inventory at locations, close to hubs — Dubai, Dammam, and Muscat.

Digital infra integrates with emergency protocols

Abhishek Shah, CEO & Co-Founder, RSA Global

At RSA Global, we maintain a robust Business Continuity Plan designed for rapid response to emergencies and natural disasters in the Middle East. Our certified Emergency Response Team undergoes regular refresher trainings and scenario-based simulations to ensure readiness for any crisis. Our digital infra integrates with emergency protocols, allowing us to adapt to evolving situations and maintain continuity of emergency situations.

Work with govt, partners to mobilise capacity

Santosh Kumar Soni, Head of Sales, UAE, Airglow Aviation Services

The Middle East’s position and air cargo infra make it a vital hub for rapid emergency response. We prioritise readiness through regional partnerships and 24x7 operational control centres. We work closely with govts, humanitarian agencies, and partner airlines to mobilise capacity at short notice to ensure relief supplies reach affected areas. To enhance our capabilities, we have adopted many digital solutions.

Automated warehousing to enhance efficiency

Yousif Najim, CEO, Orbit Logistics

At our company, rapid response during emergencies and natural disasters is a top priority. We maintain pre-positioned stock, dedicated response teams and contingency plans tailored to the Middle East’s unique challenges. Our teams undergo regular training to ensure fast mobilisation. To enhance efficiency, we have adopted AI-driven route optimisation, Internet of Things-enabled tracking and automated warehousing.