Middle East warehouses go high-tech with AI and automation

While Middle East is evolving into global logistics hub, supply chains are become more complex and businesses are integrating solutions to optimise efficiency and improve security. More firms are adopting WMS, AI, IoT, blockchain, and robotics to change logistics landscape.

-Dr. Shehara Fernando

The Middle Eastern businesses are rapidly integrating automation into their warehouse operations. Many companies use Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) combined with IoT sensors and AI-driven analytics to enhance inventory tracking, reduce human errors and improve real-time visibility. Robotics is also gaining traction, particularly in order fulfillment and material handling, improving speed and accuracy, while reducing labour costs.

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and robotic arms are now common in warehouses, ensuring seamless logistics operations across the region. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionising supply chain decision-making in the Middle East. Companies are leveraging predictive analytics for demand forecasting, route optimisation, and warehouse efficiency improvements.

AI-powered insights help the businesses to anticipate market fluctuations, reduce waste, and optimise transportation networks. With real-time data analysis, the logistics companies can minimise delays, manage risks and enhance overall supply chain resilience thereby ensuring cost-effective and sustainable operations. Technological advancements such as blockchain, autonomous vehicles, and the cargo drones are redefining logistics and security. Blockchain enhances transparency by creating decentralised ledgers, ensuring secure and tamper-proof record-keeping, among others.

Autonomous trucks and cargo drones are being tested for last-mile delivery, reducing delivery times and improving efficiency. Robotic solutions, including AI-powered surveillance, are enhancing warehouse security, preventing theft and unauthorised access. These innovations are helping the businesses in the Middle East region build an efficient, secure, and technologically advanced logistics ecosystem, aligning with the region’s vision for digital transformation.

New tech transforms warehouse operations

Axel Herzhauser, Global CEO, We Freight

The level of digitalisation and usage of new technologies in a warehouse varies from operation to operation. Seen from the eyes of a 3PL company, the usage of such technologies depend on duration of warehousing contract and scalability of an operation. All technologies have purpose to optimise a warehouse operations. WMS enables the management of warehousing tasks. The new solutions are often AI optimised so they continue to enhance the overall operational process.

WMS streamlines warehouse operations

Asif Iqbal, Warehouse Operations Manager, Compass Logistics

At Compass Logistics International, we leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency and optimise supply chain processes. While we use WMS to streamline aspects of warehouse operations, our focus remains on continuous improvement and adopting advanced solutions to meet evolving industry demands. At the sametime, we do not utilise IoT sensors, AI-driven analytics, or robotics, we are evaluating the emerging technologies.

Drones, robotic solutions transforming logistics

Daniel Caton, Managing Director, Momentum Logistics

Integration and automation of warehouse operations through WMS, IoT, AI, and robotics presents an evolution in SCM. Momentum Logistics is leveraging our existing tech to achieve accuracy and enhanced productivity. AI, ML, and predictive analytics’ integrate supply chain operations and decision-making processes. Adoption of blockchain, autonomous vehicles, drones, and robotic solutions are transforming logistics and security across the supply chain.

BI-predictive analytics perks up supply chain

Derrick Pimenta, Business Development Manager, Orient Cargo

Business Intelligence (BI) tools analyse data and generate actionable optimisations for our inventory management, improvements for order fulfillment processes and assists us to make informed decisions that boost productivity and reduce costs. Our new WMS will become integral to our operations, providing real-time visibility into inventory levels, help streamline packing processes, and ensure accurate order tracking allowing accuracy in our warehouse operations.

Smart automation optimise resource allocation

Rizwan Kareem, Director, Air Freight Operations, ATS World

Today’s supply chain is evolving fast, and warehouses are rising to meet demands. Embracing digital transformation, modern warehouses are replacing outdated methods with tech-powered systems. With AI and smart automation, teams now forecast demand and optimise resource allocation. Robotics and IoT sensors boost efficiency and resilience. This blend of digital knowledge and human insight ushers in an era of super-efficient warehousing.