Logistic operations in the Middle East are being driven by rising demand for rapid, time-sensitive logistics and the expansion of trade with the Global South. Companies are looking to utilise all aircraft and hubs to meet opportunity in the region, leveraging geographic advantage and operational agility.
“Currently, the regional air cargo and logistics market is growing at an annual rate of approximately 4.2 to 4.5 percent, depending on the source. This growth is expected to accelerate to between six and seven percent by 2026. Much of this expansion is concentrated in narrow-body aircraft operating within a six-hour radius—an area that remains relatively under-served,” Hamdi Osman, Founder and CEO of SolitAir, explained.
The emphasis on rapid delivery has significant operational implications. Drawing on his 34 years with FedEx to outline SolitAir’s approach to balancing speed with oversight, Osman outlined: “Custodial control matters the most. Safety and security come second, followed by pricing and information technology. Customers may not articulate this, but they demand visibility, reliability and accuracy in billing from day one.
“Velocity is becoming a necessity. Customers today ask, ‘How fast?’ before they ask, ‘how much?’ Speed and efficiency are driving loyalty, especially with the rise of e-commerce. A package delivered the same or next day leaves a lasting impression, while delays are remembered far longer than cost.”
Emerging trade lanes
Prominent hubs like Dubai in the Middle East and Mumbai in South Asia are central to the growth of regional airfreight, playing a key role in linking production and consumption markets across the global south. “Approximately 70 to 80 percent of the world’s population lives in the global south. These regions are producing, manufacturing and consuming goods—from agriculture to oil, gas, and precious metals. Connectivity via hubs is crucial for linking these supply chains efficiently,” Osman stated.
This geographic situation, paired with market demand, has seen SolitAir look towards trade lanes that combine production and consumption within a six-hour flight time. Against an initial plan to serve 50 cities by 2027, the cargo airline has already covered over 35 routes in just one year of operation, highlighting its strong growth trajectory. “We are focusing on the CIS, Turkey, the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. Each of these regions functions either as a producer, consumer, or both, making them strategic for narrow-body operations and fast delivery.” Osman underscored.
Composition and preparedness
SolitAir’s staffing strategy reflects a balance of experience and digital fluency. Combining seasoned industry veterans with younger, technologically adept personnel creates a resilient workforce. “Seventy percent of our employees are over 50, bringing wisdom and operational experience. The remaining 30 percent are under 32, providing insights into digital trends and AI-driven processes. This mix allows us to scale quickly and respond to market shifts effectively,” Osman said.
The integration of technology and market intelligence is also central to growth. “Every operation is preceded by a detailed market study and data analysis. We deploy a team of specialists to evaluate each airport and trade lane before we execute. Focus, analysis, development, and execution—that is our operational formula,” he outlined.
Comparing SolitAir’s first year to constructing the base of a skyscraper, Osman was clear how long-term strategic planning is central to development of operational foundations: “The foundation we built in year one is solid, allowing us to scale sustainably. We are now focused on expanding the footprint, increasing capacity and leveraging technology to enhance visibility, efficiency and customer satisfaction.”
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Author: Edward Hardy
