"Industry Insights – UAE Logistics Boost & Global Safety Innovations"

ADQ’s Strategic Acquisition of Aramex Stake Enhances UAE’s Logistics Sector

Abu Dhabi’s state-owned holding company, ADQ, has acquired a 22% stake in Aramex, a leading global logistics and transportation solutions provider. This strategic investment aims to bolster the United Arab Emirates’ position in the international logistics and transportation sector.

The acquisition was executed through a series of on-market transactions and an off-market special deal. Murtaza Hussain, ADQ’s acting chief investment officer for M&A and alternative investments, stated that Aramex’s global leadership in logistics complements ADQ’s existing investments, including Abu Dhabi Ports, Abu Dhabi Airport, and Etihad Rail, as the company works to expand the UAE’s logistics ecosystem.

Established in 1982, Aramex has grown into a global provider of logistics and transportation solutions, with over 600 offices in more than 65 countries. The company offers a wide range of services, including domestic and international express delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, road, air, and sea freight, supply chain management, and more.

In September 2020, ADQ initially acquired the 22% stake in Aramex through its subsidiary, Alpha Oryx Limited. This move was part of ADQ’s broader strategy to invest in key sectors that support the UAE’s economic diversification and growth.

Subsequently, in January 2022, Alpha Oryx transferred its 22.32% stake in Aramex to Abu Dhabi Ports Group, another ADQ subsidiary. This transfer aimed to create synergies between Aramex’s global logistics operations and Abu Dhabi Ports’ regional infrastructure, enhancing the UAE’s logistics capabilities.

Aramex has been actively restructuring its operations to adapt to the evolving logistics landscape. In September 2021, the company split its core businesses into Aramex Express, focusing on business-to-consumer deliveries, and Aramex Logistics, handling business-to-business operations. This strategic realignment was designed to capture growth opportunities in the post-COVID-19 transportation and logistics industry.

The UAE’s logistics sector has been experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing e-commerce demand and strategic investments in infrastructure. ADQ’s acquisition of a substantial stake in Aramex aligns with the nation’s vision to become a global logistics hub, leveraging its strategic location and advanced infrastructure.

ADQ, established in 2018, is one of the region’s largest holding companies, with a broad portfolio spanning key sectors, including utilities, tourism and hospitality, aviation, transportation, logistics, industrial, real estate, media, healthcare, food and agriculture, and financial services. The company’s investment in Aramex reflects its commitment to enhancing the UAE’s economic competitiveness and diversification.

Source: Introducing New Treasury

26th Edition of Intersec Opens in Dubai Tomorrow, Showcasing Innovations Shaping Global Safety and Security

The 26th edition of Intersec, the world’s largest trade show dedicated to security, safety, and fire protection, is set to open tomorrow, January 14, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this year”s event promises to be the most extensive to date, featuring 1,200 exhibitors from 61 countries and welcoming over 52,000 visitors from more than 140 nations.

Operating under the theme “Mapping the Future of Security, Safety, and Fire Protection,” Intersec 2025 will showcase cutting-edge technologies and solutions across five key sectors:

Commercial & Perimeter Security
Fire & Rescue
Safety & Health
Cybersecurity
Homeland Security & Policing

The event will host 11 international pavilions, including notable contributions from the UK, France, and Singapore, reinforcing its role as a premier hub for global collaboration, networking, and knowledge exchange.

Key Features and Conferences
This year’s edition introduces several new highlights:

Intersec Policing Conference: Over 50 international experts will share best practices in law enforcement and public safety.
CISO Business Briefing: An exclusive forum for Chief Information Security Officers to discuss emerging trends and strategies in cybersecurity.
Intersec Startup Arena: In collaboration with Ignyte, this platform will allow startups to present disruptive solutions to industry leaders and investors.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the event’s organizer, said:

“Intersec 2025 is a powerful demonstration of global collaboration, uniting participants to showcase the best in security, safety, and fire protection. This event serves as a unique platform combining innovation with expertise, driving progress and shaping the future of these essential industries.”

The event will also feature flagship conference programmes:

Security Leaders’ Summit: Supported by Kearney, this summit will cover topics like sustainable security practices, technology, and geopolitical risk intelligence.
Safety and Health Conference: Curated by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health and the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health, focusing on workplace and road safety.
Fire and Rescue Conference: Hosted by the National Fire Protection Association, with sessions on AI-driven fire prediction and UAE building regulations.

Other engaging elements include the SIRA Forum, Thought Leadership Pavilion, and live demonstrations such as the Safety Walk and the Innovation Stage at in{cyber}.

Awards and Recognitions

Security Professionalism & Excellence Awards (SPEA): To be held on January 14, 2025, at DWTC.
Intersec Awards: Celebrating excellence in fire, safety, and security on January 15, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC.

The event is supported by prominent UAE entities, including Dubai Civil Defense, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, Cyber Security Council, Security Industry Regulation Agency (SIRA), Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Electronic Security Center.

Event Details

Dates: January 14–16, 2025
Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)

For more information, visit www.intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com.Dubai, UAE: The 26th edition of Intersec, the world’s largest trade show dedicated to security, safety, and fire protection, is set to open tomorrow, January 14, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this year”s event promises to be the most extensive to date, featuring 1,200 exhibitors from 61 countries and welcoming over 52,000 visitors from more than 140 nations.