DHL eCommerce Completes Strategic Minority Investment in Saudi Logistics Powerhouse AJEX
DHL eCommerce, the parcel and e‑commerce logistics specialist arm of DHL Group, has officially finalized a minority stake acquisition in AJEX Logistics Services—a rising star in the GCC supply chain and transportation sector owned by Ajlan & Bros Holding Group (International Post Corporation, Al Bawaba).
This strategic move not only marks DHL’s formal entry into Saudi Arabia’s booming e‑commerce parcel market but also signals the beginning of a powerful regional expansion for AJEX. Leveraging DHL’s global capabilities alongside AJEX’s rapidly growing domestic network, both companies are now ideally positioned to tap into the projected double‑digit growth of Saudi Arabia’s e‑commerce sector—an essential driver of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative (International Post Corporation, EuropaWire, DHL Group).
AJEX — A Swift Rise to Prominence
Founded in 2021, AJEX has swiftly emerged as a dominant force in regional and domestic parcel delivery, thanks to its impressive infrastructure—which includes over 60 facilities, a fleet of approximately 1,200 vehicles, and a workforce of around 2,000 professionals—demonstrating remarkable growth in a short time (International Post Corporation, EuropaWire, Al Bawaba).
Earlier reports estimated AJEX’s resources at over 50 facilities, 900 vehicles, and 1,500 personnel; however, recent updates reflect their accelerated expansion to the latest figures mentioned above (Wamda, Zawya, International Post Corporation, EuropaWire).
Strategic Impact of the Partnership
1. Bolstering DHL’s E‑Commerce Reach
This acquisition represents a key component of DHL Group’s broader Strategy 2030—“Accelerate Sustainable Growth”, under which it is earmarking EUR 500 million for high-growth markets like Saudi Arabia (International Post Corporation, DHL Group, The Wall Street Journal). This investment spans all DHL business units—Express, Global Forwarding, Supply Chain, and eCommerce—and underscores DHL’s commitment to building resilient logistics infrastructure in the Middle East (DHL Group, The Wall Street Journal, EuropaWire).
DHL’s entry through AJEX allows it to quickly bolster its last-mile delivery presence in Saudi Arabia, where demand is surging due to rapid e-commerce adoption and Vision 2030’s emphasis on diversified economic growth (The Wall Street Journal, DHL Group, AInvest).
2. Advancing Saudi Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030—as one of its pillars—emphasizes logistics as a cornerstone for economic diversification. The e‑commerce sector, in particular, is expected to grow at a double‑digit pace, necessitating capable partners with both deep local networks and international logistics expertise (International Post Corporation, Transport Intelligence, AInvest).
By combining AJEX’s local infrastructure with DHL’s global experience, the partnership strengthens delivery efficiency and reliability—key features for meeting Vision 2030’s goals (International Post Corporation, Supply Chain Digital, AInvest).
3. Competitive Edge and Customer Value
AJEX’s Group CEO, Mohammed Albayati, emphasized that DHL’s investment is a validation of AJEX’s speed and precision, and positions them to enter a new growth phase.
“For our customers across Saudi Arabia and the Middle East region, this means access to faster, smarter, and more innovative delivery services, powering the region’s fast‑growing e‑commerce markets.”
(International Post Corporation, EuropaWire)
DHL CEO, Pablo Ciano, echoed this, stating that combining AJEX’s customer-centric regional presence with DHL’s global know‑how will result in “reliable, affordable, and sustainable parcel solutions across the region.” (International Post Corporation, DHL Group, EuropaWire)
Moreover, Ajlan Mohamed Al Ajlan, Group Managing Director of Ajlan & Bros, highlighted the synergy between AJEX and DHL as a catalyst to enhance efficiency, reliability, and to contribute meaningfully toward Vision 2030’s goals. (International Post Corporation, EuropaWire, Supply Chain Digital)
Governance and Branding
As part of the agreement, DHL eCommerce will secure a seat on AJEX’s management board, granting strategic input and oversight capabilities (DHL Group, EuropaWire). Additionally, DHL retains the option to increase its stake in AJEX to a majority position in the future—an arrangement that ensures flexibility as the partnership evolves (DHL Group, EuropaWire).
Reflecting the partnership in branding, AJEX will now be referred to as “AJEX, a partner of DHL eCommerce”, signaling the deepened collaboration (International Post Corporation, EuropaWire, Supply Chain Digital).
Broader Regional Strategy
With this deal, DHL eCommerce joins its sister divisions—DHL Express, DHL Supply Chain, and DHL Global Forwarding—all of which already operate in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing DHL’s comprehensive presence across the logistics ecosystem (DHL Group, EuropaWire).
Through its Strategy 2030 initiative, DHL Group is simultaneously advancing infrastructure, expanding regional operations, and integrating sustainable technologies, such as electric fleets and cleaner energy solutions, in alignment with global climate goals (DHL Group, The Wall Street Journal).
Why This Matters Summary of Key Significance
- Strategic Market Entry
DHL gains inroads into Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing parcel market through a trusted local partner. - Vision 2030 Enabler
The partnership supports national goals of economic diversification and digital transformation. - Operational Synergy
AJEX’s infrastructure combines with DHL’s operational excellence to drive improved delivery services. - Governance Flexibility
Board participation and future majority stake option enable scalable integration. - Regional Footprint Expansion
Enhances DHL’s pan‑Middle East presence and service capabilities. - Sustainability Alignment
Under Strategy 2030 and Vision 2030, growth is planned with an eye toward sustainability and long-term resilience.
DHL eCommerce’s minority stake acquisition in AJEX Logistics Services marks a significant milestone in both companies’ trajectories—and in the broader landscape of Middle Eastern e‑commerce logistics.
By aligning DHL’s global logistics expertise with AJEX’s agile and growing regional network, the partnership addresses the explosive growth of online commerce across Saudi Arabia and the GCC. It is also intrinsically tied to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes logistics as a means to diversify and fortify the national economy.
With governance involvement and room to increase ownership, DHL is well-positioned to deepen its role in the region’s logistics future. For businesses and customers alike, the deal promises accelerated, dependable, and innovative parcel solutions, reinforcing the transformation of Saudi Arabia into a logistics as well as an e‑commerce powerhouse.