DHL commits to Bahrain International Airport

DHL reaffirmed its confidence in Bahrain and Bahrain International Airport (BIA) today by signing a new contract to maintain its regional headquarters at the airport for a further eight years.

DHL has based its regional operations in Bahrain for over 35 years. The new contract serves to underline the close working relationship between DHL and Bahrain and the strong partnership that has been fostered with the Bahrain Airport Company, which is 100% owned by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company and the Civil Aviation Authority. Moreover, it highlights the renewed confidence of major international businesses in the Kingdom of Bahrain following recent events.

Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board, commented: “I am delighted that DHL have extended their commitment to Bahrain, and would like to congratulate everyone at the Bahrain Airport Company for the excellent service and support provided to all of their customers and partners. DHL’s decision to maintain its regional hub in Bahrain shows the benefits offered by the Kingdom for international businesses seeking to access the Gulf region, and the presence of key organisations such as them will help generate continued economic growth and jobs for all Bahrainis.”

DHL’s continued presence will not only strengthen the Bahrain International Airport’s cargo service directly, but will also have a positive impact on the growth of the cargo and logistics supporting businesses.

Commenting on the agreement, Bahrain Airport Company’s newly appointed Chairman, Khalid Al Rumaihi said: “This deal is a key milestone for BAC in fulfilling its mandate set by Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, by securing the business of a major player and partner in the aviation industry with better terms as it works towards realizing the commercial value and potential of the Airport and strengthening Bahrain’s position as an aviation hub located in the centre of the Gulf region.

The new deal was signed between Bahrain Airport Company’s CEO, Gordon Dewar and DHL’s Senior Vice President, Garry Kemp. “We are delighted to extend our commitment to the Bahrain International Airport, which is a key partner for DHL and has been instrumental to our success in the region,” commented Mr. Kemp. “Bahrain’s strategic location and excellent access via land, sea and air to the region, as well as its open economy and business facilitating approach, has continued to make it a solid base for our regional hub,” he added.

Underscoring the importance of this contract with DHL to the BIA, Bahrain Airport Company CEO, Gordon Dewar said: “BAC’s business strategy is to develop an airport that is the best airport for Bahrain by continuously seeking to introduce and maintain value added services at the Airport, this new contract with DHL forms a vital cornerstone for the company as we enter a new phase of commercial development.  We have had a longstanding relationship with DHL and we are looking forward to many more years of shared success.”

Also present to mark the occasion, were officials from BAC, DHL, the Economic Development Board (EDB), Mumtalakat, the CAA, ground handlers, Bahrain Airport Services (BAS), Ministry of Interior’s Airport functions and other dignitaries.