Transport and Telecommunications Minister Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa has emphasised that Bahrain is moving steadily towards consolidating its position as a leading global hub in civil aviation and logistics services, in line with the Civil Aviation Strategy (2026-2027) and Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.
He explained that, as part of ongoing government efforts to develop the civil aviation sector and enhance its contribution to the national economy, all legal and regulatory procedures have been completed for the registration of one of the world’s major air cargo companies, DHL Air Bahrain, to take the kingdom as its main hub and headquarters for its operational and commercial activities.
The minister noted that this strategic step reflects Bahrain’s advanced position on the global aviation map, and the strong confidence of major international companies in the kingdom’s regulatory and investment environment, as well as its advanced infrastructure and strategic location that connects regional and international markets with high efficiency and flexibility.
He said the initiative aligns with the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
“Establishing the company includes granting it a substantive national ownership status and adopting Bahrain as its main regional business hub, which will enhance air transport and cargo capabilities and support the kingdom’s direction to strengthen its position as a leading regional centre in air cargo and logistics services,” Dr Shaikh Abdulla explained.
“It also represents a strategic addition to Bahrain’s civil aviation ecosystem alongside Gulf Air, the national carrier of the kingdom, strengthening the diversity of national carriers and institutions, improving operational flexibility, and supporting regional and global supply chains, as well as expanding Bahrain’s air and logistics connectivity.”
The minister also said this development opens wider prospects for the designation of national carriers in accordance with air transport service agreements, further enhancing Bahrain’s competitiveness and presence at regional and international levels.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla said that this development reflects the strength of Bahrain’s investment environment and the success of national policies in empowering the civil aviation sector, supporting sustainable development, and reinforcing the kingdom’s position as an advanced regional and international hub for aviation and logistics services.
DHL Express MENA CEO Abdulaziz Busbate expressed appreciation for the support and follow-up provided to the civil aviation sector by the Transport and Telecommunications Minister, commending efforts to develop the regulatory environment and enhance infrastructure readiness.
“The company places strong focus on empowering national talent, with Bahrainisation reaching 53 per cent, reflecting its commitment to providing quality employment opportunities for Bahrainis and qualifying them to actively contribute to the air cargo sector and support economic development in the kingdom.
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