Strengthened network and customs expertise to provide premium service for export shippers to the USA

Manama, August 21, 2007:  With US$1.2 billion invested in its U.S. ground and air networks, sending export shipments and personal effects to the U.S. mainland from the Middle East has now become faster using DHL, the world's leading express and logistics provider.

As part of its U.S. investments, DHL has modernized and expanded three super Hubs and six major Gateways, resulting in an increase in ground delivery capacity by 60 percent, reduced transit times and same day clearance of 99 percent of import shipments.

"This recent enhancement to our network will ensure that our customers are provided with the most competitive express service offering to one of the Middle East's major markets," said David Wild, Commercial Director for DHL Express Middle East. "We are able to leverage on our vast air network and extensive infrastructure, to help customers to be more competitive in their business with the USA."

The newly upgraded service will benefit customers of DHL's all-inclusive, door-to-door services for expediting trade between the two markets. With these services, shipments are handled by DHL from pick-up to delivery, with tracking details providing complete visibility of shipment progress. In addition, customers shipping from the UAE will now benefit from swifter transit times with an enhanced two day delivery to the U.S. and next day service to New York.

As part of its enhanced service DHL operates the largest network of in-house customs brokers to support clearance of all dutiable shipments, providing streamlined customs clearance, effective tracking of shipments, and reduction in transit times. With 99 percent of all shipments imported into the USA cleared the same day, DHL offers the fastest entry into the local U.S. network, regardless of the origin country.

"DHL in the Middle East will continue delivering on the company's promise of a superior customer service experience, through continued investment in our Middle East and wider global networks, as well as through the commitment of our people," Wild added.

With a Gross Domestic Product of US$13 trillion and estimated total imports of US$1,727 billion in 2005, the USA is the world's largest economy and number one import country. Commodities exported in the greatest volume from across the Middle East region to the USA are fuels, clothing, textiles, aluminium, chemicals and fertilizers.

DHL has been present in the USA for more than 40 years and has over 11,000 employees nationwide. The upgraded Hub in Wilmington, Illinois, with an investment of US$300 million, has seen the Hub's capabilities grow to handle over 120 aircraft providing 127 flights per day. Globally, DHL utilizes over 500 daily flights to the U,S, mainland, using over 200 aircraft and has more Hubs nationwide than any other express and logistics operator. DHL operates in over 560 locations nationwide in the USA, which handle over 450 million shipments annually.

-Ends-

About DHL
DHL is the global market leader of the international express and logistics industry, specializing in providing innovative and customized solutions from a single source. DHL offers expertise in express, air and ocean freight, overland transport, contract logistic solutions as well as international mail services, combined with worldwide coverage and an in-depth understanding of local markets. DHL's international network links more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.  More than 300,000 employees are dedicated to providing fast and reliable services that exceed customers' expectations. DHL is a Deutsche Post World Net brand. The group generated revenues of 60bn euros in 2006.

For more information please contact:
Nadera Abu Ali
Account Manager
ASDA'A Public Relations
Exclusive Affiliate of Edelman PR Worldwide in Middle East and North Africa
Manama
Kingdom Of Bahrain
Tel: +973 -17582033
Fax: +973 -17582034
Email: N.abuali@asdaa.com 
Email: f.alawami@asdaa.com 
Email: a.alshaik@asdaa.com 

© Press Release 2007