The Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone has announced the signing of a strategic partnership with DHL Express, the global provider of international logistics services, in a move aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and strengthening their ability to expand beyond local markets.

The partnership forms part of the free zone’s efforts to provide a more integrated business ecosystem for companies operating under its framework, by offering practical solutions that help improve operational efficiency, develop cross-border trade capabilities, and open access to new opportunities in international markets.

GoTrade Programme Available to Free Zone Companies

The cooperation between the two sides is centred on giving SMEs registered within the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone access to DHL’s GoTrade programme. The global initiative focuses on capacity building and knowledge transfer for companies looking to enter export markets or expand their international presence.

Through this partnership, more than 2,500 companies operating across over 40 sectors will be able to benefit from specialised training designed to help them better understand the requirements of international trade, cross-border shipping, customs procedures, e-commerce, and other key areas linked to global expansion.

In addition to the training programme, DHL will provide preferential rates to companies operating within the free zone, giving them further support in managing their international logistics operations more efficiently.

Agreement Signed in Dubai

The agreement was signed in the presence of Abdullah Al Banna, Vice President of Regulatory Operations at the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone, and Mahmoud Haj Hussein, General Manager of DHL Express UAE, at the DHL Express UAE office in Dubai.

Abdullah Al Banna said that small and medium-sized enterprises represent a key element in supporting Dubai’s economic growth and form an important part of the emirate’s long-term economic direction. He noted that the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone is working to enable companies to expand globally by providing the right infrastructure, business networks, and expertise needed to support their growth.

He added that the partnership with DHL Express gives companies access to a valuable practical resource through the GoTrade programme, which equips them with the knowledge and skills required in international trade and supports their ability to accelerate expansion plans in overseas markets.

Supporting Companies in Navigating Global Trade Challenges

Mahmoud Haj Hussein said that international trade has become more accessible to companies than ever before, but many SMEs still face challenges when trying to enter new markets, particularly in areas related to shipping, customs, e-commerce, and managing cross-border operations.

He stressed that DHL Express does not see its role as being limited to logistics services only, but rather as a partner that supports the international growth of businesses through its global network and expertise in cross-border trade.

He added that the GoTrade programme aims to provide entrepreneurs and SMEs with practical knowledge in essential areas, helping them build the confidence and readiness needed to compete and grow in global markets.

14 Training Modules to Build Capabilities

The GoTrade programme offers a comprehensive training curriculum made up of 14 interactive modules, designed to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises. These modules cover topics related to logistics operations, international trade frameworks, e-commerce, customs procedures, customer experience, and financial planning.

The programme helps companies gain a clearer understanding of the steps required for exporting and how to manage international business operations in a structured way, supporting their chances of entering new markets while reducing the challenges linked to overseas growth.

Strengthening the Business Ecosystem at DWTC

This partnership lays the foundation for continued cooperation between the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone and DHL through knowledge sharing and the development of initiatives and programmes aimed at supporting SMEs and entrepreneurs.

The move is also aligned with the free zone’s strategy to provide a flexible and future-ready business environment that helps companies grow, innovate, and respond to the changing demands of global markets.

The cooperation with DHL comes as part of a wider series of partnerships being developed by the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone to increase the value offered to companies operating within its ecosystem, whether they are startups, established businesses, or companies seeking to expand their activities beyond the UAE.

The free zone offers a range of competitive advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, exemption from personal income tax, and access to more than 1,200 licensed business activities, making it one of the attractive environments for companies looking to establish their presence in Dubai and expand into regional and global markets.