The Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ), part of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), announced the opening of AWOT Global Logistics’ first regional headquarters within the free zone. The move reflects the confidence of a leading global logistics provider in Dubai’s business environment and its position at the centre of international trade flows.
The inauguration was attended by Arif Al Khoori, Senior Vice President of Customer Services at DAFZ, and Chris Yang, General Manager for the Middle East and North Africa at AWOT, alongside senior company executives. The event underscored Dubai’s growing role as a launchpad for regional and international logistics operations.
Dubai as a Regional Operating Base
The establishment of the regional headquarters forms part of AWOT’s strategy to expand its footprint across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, leveraging Dubai’s strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and logistics efficiency linked directly to Dubai International Airport. These advantages enable faster market access, greater operational control, and improved service delivery across key trade corridors.
Arif Al Khoori noted that attracting AWOT reflects the rising confidence global companies place in Dubai’s integrated business ecosystem and its ability to support expansion and long-term growth. He added that DAFZ continues to capitalise on its proximity to the airport and its operational capabilities to strengthen supply chains, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which targets positioning Dubai among the world’s leading logistics hubs and expanding its global trade connectivity.
Global Scale and Operational Expertise
AWOT is headquartered in China and employs more than 1,500 professionals, operating a self-managed network of 55 locations across China, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia, with established operations in North America and Europe. The company is supported by a global partner network of over 300 agents across more than 100 countries.
According to Armstrong & Associates’ 2025 rankings, AWOT is among the top 10 air freight forwarders worldwide, ranking ninth globally. The company operates more than 1,800 dedicated air freight flights annually and handles approximately 780,000 metric tonnes of air cargo each year.
Integrated Operations and Advanced Operating Models
The new regional headquarters will oversee AWOT’s air, sea, and land freight services, specialised cargo solutions, and project logistics, while coordinating regional and international partnerships. The hub will also support advanced operating models built on cloud-based digital platforms, alongside tracking and analytics systems designed to enhance efficiency, visibility, and supply chain reliability.
Chris Yang stated that Dubai’s ease of doing business, advanced logistics infrastructure, and strategic position linking major global markets make it a natural choice for AWOT’s long-term regional expansion.
A Business Environment Designed for Growth
DAFZ will continue to provide regulatory and institutional support to facilitate AWOT’s expansion within the free zone, including streamlined customs processes and access to an integrated ecosystem of logistics providers, customs brokers, and distribution partners. This environment strengthens operational efficiency and enables scalable cross-border trade operations from Dubai.
For the broader business community, the expansion reinforces Dubai’s appeal as a stable regional base for managing supply chains and international trade. In this context, Absher Business supports logistics and international trade companies in establishing free zone operations, structuring legal and operational frameworks, and scaling regional activities from Dubai with clarity and confidence.
