DHL expands into Saudi Logistics Market with AJEX Acquisition

DHL eCommerce, the e-commerce logistics arm of DHL Group, has acquired a minority stake in Saudi Arabia-based parcel logistics company AJEX Logistics Services. This strategic move marks DHL’s expansion into the rapidly growing Saudi e-commerce logistics sector, reinforcing its presence in the Middle East.

Strengthening E-Commerce Logistics in Saudi Arabia

Founded in 2021, AJEX has quickly become a key player in the Saudi logistics landscape, backed by Ajlan & Bros Holding. The company offers a range of services, including express distribution, e-commerce solutions, road freight, ocean freight, and air freight. With operations spanning Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, the US, UK, Turkey, South Africa, and China, AJEX has established a robust regional and international presence.

The agreement, signed in the presence of industry leaders from DHL Group and Ajlan & Bros Holding, positions DHL eCommerce to capitalize on the growing demand for efficient and scalable logistics solutions in Saudi Arabia’s thriving e-commerce sector.

A Key Step in DHL’s Global Strategy

Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce, emphasized that this partnership aligns with DHL Group’s Strategy 2030, which focuses on accelerating sustainable growth in high-potential markets.

Saudi Arabia’s logistics sector is expanding rapidly, driven by economic transformation and e-commerce growth under Vision 2030. Partnering with AJEX allows us to bring our expertise in parcel operations and create reliable, affordable, and sustainable delivery solutions in this market,” he stated.

Ajlan Bin Mohammed Al Ajlan, Group Managing Director of Ajlan & Bros Holding, also highlighted the importance of this collaboration:

The demand for a logistics provider with both local expertise and global reach is rising. Through this partnership with DHL eCommerce, we are well-positioned to meet this demand and drive further expansion in the domestic parcel sector.

Expanding DHL’s Footprint in Saudi Arabia

AJEX operates a network of over 50 facilities, with a fleet of 900+ vehicles and a team of 1,500 employees. The company will continue leading its operations while integrating DHL’s expertise in international parcel logistics. As part of the agreement, DHL eCommerce has also secured the option to increase its stake in AJEX to a majority share in the future.

With this acquisition, all four business divisions of DHL Group are now actively engaged in Saudi Arabia. DHL has had a presence in the country since 1970, initially through DHL Express, and later expanding into contract logistics and freight forwarding.

Regulatory Approvals Pending

The deal is subject to regulatory approval and merger control clearance. Once finalized, the partnership will enable both companies to enhance logistics infrastructure and support Saudi Arabia’s growing e-commerce sector.

This acquisition reinforces DHL’s long-term commitment to expanding its footprint in the Middle East, ensuring faster, more efficient parcel deliveries for businesses and consumers in the region.