Following the successful deliberations at the first-ever Dubai Logistics Cluster Focus Group hosted recently, the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) has launched the Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform, a dedicated body of experts representing logistics and related sectors to come together, discuss challenges and propose recommendations to strengthen the industry.
A model in public private partnerships, the Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform is the first of its kind initiative in the region, whereby all stakeholders associated with logistics and related sectors come to work together and strengthen the competitiveness of Dubai’s logistics.
Announcing the launch of the Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform, His Excellency Mr Sami Al Qamzi, Director General, DED, said: “At DED, we believe in the power of tangible action, and today’s Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform launch will mark a new chapter in public private partnerships in Dubai, more so in driving logistics – a backbone of the Emirate’s economy. Dubai has adhered to open market policies and created growth opportunities for regional and international companies in logistics. Our approach has been to facilitate the logistics cluster stakeholders to benefit from the geographic, economic and infrastructural opportunities offered by Dubai.”
He added: “However, it is important that we sharpen our skills continuously. The all-round growth of organisations operating within the Logistics Cluster is a high priority for us to further establish Dubai’s eminent position as a global business hub. The Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform, through a collaborative and action-oriented approach, will enable us to further boost the competitiveness of Dubai in logistics.”
“Cluster approach and collaboration are especially significant now, as the world economy at large witnesses new and emerging challenges. There are various factors that affect global trade patterns and only a collaborative approach will help us to obtain a complete picture of the prevailing trends, and address them effectively,” explained His Excellency Mr Al Qamzi.
The launch of the Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform was preceded by a Focus Group by end of May 2011, where all key stakeholders in logistics including government and private companies, service providers, educational institutions, related and supporting industries, government institutions and industry associations took part. They discussed the issues related to the business environment and the growth of the companies, as well as potential for stronger collaboration with public sector, which served as the basis for the Cluster Platform.
At the launch event of the Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform, a special panel discussed the key challenges faced by the industry. The panel included His Excellency Abdullah Bin Saleh, Assistant Ministry of Foreign Trade; His Excellency Mr. Ahmad Butti, Director General of Dubai Customs; Dr. Mohammad Al Zarouni, Director General of DAFZA; and His Excellency Abdul Mohsen Younis, CEO of Strategic and Corporate Governance in RTA.
His Excellency Mr Al Qamzi explained: “The Logistics Cluster in Dubai is playing a central role in the Europe-Asia-Africa trade, while also serving as a regional trade hub. The Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform is envisaged to serve as a permanent network that fosters collaboration between various stakeholders in logistics and related services, and lead to increased economic growth and competitiveness.”
The Dubai Logistics Cluster Platform is envisaged to facilitate better communications and synergies, and promote and facilitate interaction among firms, educational institutions, knowledge providers and the public sector to come up with joint specialized education and training activities. It will also facilitate market development through joint marketing as well as policy and action recommendations to strengthen and further develop Dubai’s logistics.
Dubai is one of very few locations in the world with a strong and well-established sea and air cargo logistics infrastructure further supported by a superior roads and related infrastructure.
