UAE Logistics and Moving Market Analysis: Financial Stats & Future Insights

The logistics and moving industries in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have grown to be the backbone of the local economy, as well as the world’s supply chain. With increased infrastructure, increased trade volumes, and increased technology, both sectors are growing significantly. The following is a comprehensive view of the financial arena of these industries with present records and future estimations.

UAE Logistics Market Financial Outlook

In 2024, the UAE’s logistics market is valued at USD 54.5 billion, and the market is expected to grow over the years and reach USD 95.2 billion by 2033 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2025 to 2033. Transportation services still constitute the major source of revenue, while warehousing and distribution services are anticipated to record the highest growth trend in the forecast period.

Key Highlights

1. Global Share: The UAE logistics industry was valued at a market size of USD 30 billion in 2023. In 2024, the UAE accounted for 4.3% of the global logistics market.
2. Regional Leadership: The UAE is estimated to become the market leader of the Middle East & Africa logistics market in terms of revenue by 2030.

Market Size and Growth Rate

• UAE Logistics Market Size (2025): From the recent reports in the markets, the logistics market in the UAE is estimated to have a value of USD 40 billion by 2028.
• The UAE logistics market size was valued at USD 54.5 billion in 2024. Moving ahead, IMARC Group is expecting the market to progress further to USD 95.2 billion from 2025 to 2033, sharing growth at a rate of 5.7% CAGR.
• E-commerce Growth Impact: E-commerce in the UAE is likely to produce USD 8 billion by 2025. The market is predicted to grow at an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 6.02% to reach a market volume of USD 10.11 billion by 2029. This brings about a direct impact on demand for last-mile delivery services, thus taking the logistics industry to greater heights.
• The moving industry in Dubai records massive growth due to booming property development and an increase in the influx of expatriates. The UAE movers market is expected to increase and reach USD 835.2 million by 2028.
• Emirates Airline: For the fiscal year of March 31, 2025, Emirates Airline had made a record profit of $5.2 billion with revenue of $34.9 billion, serving 53.7 million passengers.
• DP World: This global port operator declared a revenue of $20 billion for the year ending on 31st December 2024, which was 9.7% more than the previous year’s revenue.
• Dubai International Airport: Dubai International Airport (DXB), the busiest airport for international travel in the world, had a record 92.3 million passengers in the year 2024, a clear indication that the transport sector is bustling.

UAE’s Industrial Strategy 2030: The Drive Behind Storage Expansion

The UAE storage systems market is rapidly expanding with the growing demand for advanced storage systems in such industries as retail, logistics, and manufacturing. Some of the major drivers include government efforts to modernise storage facilities and major projects such as Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are at the head of the market with strategic investments in logistics and energy infrastructure. The future growth will be estimated at USD 428.7 million by 2028. Dubai is strategically located, which works as a gateway between the East and the West, and hence drives the demand for logistics and distribution solutions. The government’s efforts to modernise storage facilities also drive the market growth faster.

Financial Drivers for Growth

Several financial considerations are causing the expansion in the logistics industry:

1. Infrastructure Investment: The UAE has continuously invested in classy logistics infrastructure, and some of the projects, such as Dubai South and Dubai Logistics City, are anticipated to keep driving growth in the market.
2. Freight and Supply Chain Efficiency: The implementation of automated warehouses and AI-enabled logistics networks should help cut down operation costs and improve the efficiency of deliveries.
3. Property Development: Continuous real estate projects are creating demand for relocation services.
4. Expatriate Influx: With the increased number of expatriates moving to Dubai, there is an increase in the moving industry.

UAE Movers Market: Transport Industry Financial Statistics

The transport sector in the UAE has demonstrated strong performance, as it increased by 12.6% in the first eight months of 2024, compared to last year. The UAE movers market is experiencing tremendous changes due to different factors that are influencing the relocation sphere in the region. With the intensive launch of more than 10,000 new townhouses and villas by 2025, there is a conspicuous rise in property development, escalating the need for professional moving services. Urban development projects, an increased expatriate population, and future development in travel and tourism drive the market.

Moving Market Size and Projected Growth

Attention, all movers and packers!  As stated by Cognitive Market Research, the global logistics market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% within the next 7 years (from 2024 to 2031). The movers market in the UAE is expected to reach AED 835.2 million by 2028, at a CAGR of 11.7% from 2022 to 2028. This press release is based on the report “UAE Movers Market Outlook to 2028 – A Smooth Move to a Lucrative Future” and examines the key drivers of this dynamic market and gives useful insights for moving companies, logistics providers, and real estate developers.

Market Segmentation: Services for Diverse Moves 

The movers market in the UAE can be segmented based on the type of service, the distance of relocation, and the segment of customers. By understanding these segments, the moving companies are able to adapt to the nature of the services as well as pricing strategies.

1. Local Moves Lead the Pack: Local moves within the same city or emirate are expected to take the largest share in the market, as there is a high rate of relocation in the UAE. However, the long-distance moves are expected to also experience significant rates of growth.
2. Full-Service Reigns Supreme: Full-service moving packages that include packing, unpacking, transportation, and insurance are likely to dominate the market because of the convenience and sense of security that is provided to customers.
3. Residential Moves Drive Growth: The residential moves dominate the market share, but commercial relocations are also likely to record healthy growth owing to the growing business landscape in the UAE.

Financial Sector Insights: Underpinning Economic Diversification

Dubai’s financial and insurance activities sector increased by 4.5% during the first 9 months of 2024 compared to the previous year, 2023, which is equal to AED 39.439 billion. This sector accounted for 11.6% of Dubai’s GDP to contribute 16.6% of the overall growth.

Revenue and Financial Performance of Moving Services

• Average Revenue per Move: On average, local moves bring between USD 800 and USD 1,500 for moving companies in Dubai, while international relocation can cost USD 10,000 and more. This variation is based on the size, distance, and value-added services (storage, packing, and temporary accommodation).
• Luxury and International Moves: With the recent boost in the luxury real estate market in Dubai and an increased number of high-net-worth individuals relocating to the UAE, there was a surge of premium moving services in which revenue per move can reach USD 15,000, especially for high-value items and customised relocation services.

Investment Trends

• Dubai Financial Market: Expected to grow by 20% in the year 2024, with excellent performance in real estate and utility stocks.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Venture-capital-backed FDI increased 39% in 2024, according to Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism’s (DET) FDI Monitor, a sign of confidence in Dubai and the strengthening of its innovation network.

Transport Industry Financial Performance

The market for UAE freight forwarding will be worth USD 21.56 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 35.08 billion by 2032, advancing at a CAGR of 7.2% from the period of 2025 to 2032. Freight forwarding in the UAE entails the acquisition of transport and logistics services in order to facilitate the movement of goods across borders for shippers. The market arranges for shipments under several means of transport, such as ships, aircraft, trucks, and railroads.

The transport industry in the UAE comprises a number of services, from air freight to road and rail logistics. Financial performance in this segment is highly linked with the success of the logistics industry overall.

Growth of Transport and Freight in the UAE

1. Air Freight Revenue

The UAE has a strategic location and world-class infrastructure; hence, it is a strategic geographical hub in the global shipping map with excellent prospects for future development. The market is valued at USD 20.11 billion in the year 2024, with a CAGR rate of 7.01%; the value of the freight and logistics market is expected to reach USD 30.19 billion by 2030. The expansion of the cargo terminals, in addition to the increase in freight volume capacity by 30-50%, and development plans in Sharjah Airport will make the airport a leading world cargo hub. This development will respond to the increasing demand in the region for logistics services, whereby the UAE plays a significant role as a logistics hub.

2. Sea Freight Dominance

This mode of transport holds the highest share of 51.3% in the market. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have invested heavily to develop world-class port facilities that can handle high volumes of containerised and bulk cargo. Cargo volumes transiting through Jebel Ali have continued to grow gradually for the last decade, and further capacity expansions have continued to be pursued. Since the UAE plays a central role in connecting east-to-west trade routes, with sea freight forwarding, it is strong in moving products economically over long distances. Transportation through vessels makes it possible to shift bulk cargo such as oil, gas, construction materials, and industrial tools in volume quantities.

3. Road Transport

Road freight transport, dominated by the use of trucks, remains the dominant force in moving goods due to its versatility and ability to reach wide destinations; thus, it is untouchable in the freight industry. Importantly, it supports last-mile delivery, which gets goods to their final destinations — houses or enterprises. This market serves a wide range of fleets, from small delivery vans to enormous trucks that provide items from express deliveries to full truckloads. However, road transport imposes environmental problems through emissions and congestion. To solve this, there is pressure towards using greener technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

By Services:

• Contract Software/ Systems
• Storage Solutions
• Public warehousing
• Contract warehousing
• Specialist Storage
• High-security Storage
• Value-Added Warehousing
• Transportation
• Domestic Transportation Management
• International Transportation Management
• Drop Deck and Lowboy Transport
• Freight Forwarding Services
• Environmentally Controlled Freight

With a modern infrastructure, the UAE has ultramodern seaports and airports, thus facilitating the movement of goods across international borders. Rising volumes of trade, as a result of free trade agreements and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), have also increased the volumes of demand for transport services. Furthermore, logistics industries such as the oil and gas, e-commerce, and manufacturing industries need several logistics operations, thus increasing the dependence on fast and efficient transportation for prompt and economical deliveries.

Technological Innovations: Shaping the Future of Logistics

The logistics and transport industry continues to rely on technology to maximise its operational efficiency. From AI to blockchain, such innovations can be used to facilitate operations and service delivery. By adopting such technologies, the logistics companies will not only improve profitability but also be ahead in the competition.

Financial Trends Driven by Technology:

• The Dubai Robotics and Automation (R&A) Program aims to increase the robotics sector’s contribution to Dubai’s GDP to 9 % before the year 2032. As part of the program, 200,000 robots will be provided over the next 10 years until 2032 to increase efficiency and productivity in various sectors, including services, logistics, and the industrial sector, and enhance the competitiveness of Dubai’s economy.
• The blockchain technology is being investigated to promote supply chain transparency. According to a detailed study of a research report by Market Research Future (MRFR), the market is set to grow considerably over the forecast period, reaching about USD 17.15 billion by the end of 2030.

The Role of Technology in Driving Efficiency

The logistics industry in the UAE is pursuing the use of advanced technologies to increase operational efficiencies. Logistic services delivery is undergoing a revolution with the help of such technologies as AI, machine learning, robotics, and blockchain, and all moving businesses need to align with the innovations in order to remain competitive.

• AI and Automation: AI software assists companies to optimise routes, minimise fuel usage, and overall increase the efficiency of operations.
• Blockchain for Transparency: Blockchain increases trust and accountability so that logistics companies will be able to track shipments and transactions safely.
• Robotics and IoT: Robotics in the warehouses and real-time tracking through the IoT devices help to make the operations more efficient, minimise human error, and reduce operational downtime.

Future Financial Projections: Key Growth Areas and Investment Opportunities

The UAE’s logistics and moving industries are set to continue their growth trajectory over the next decade. Based on various financial projections, there are enormous investment and revenue-making opportunities in various major sectors.

E-commerce Growth: A Game-Changer for the Logistics and Moving Industries

The logistics landscape has changed in the UAE due to the rapid growth of e-commerce. By the year 2025, the UAE e-commerce market size is expected to grow to a size of USD 8 billion. Logistics companies are paying for automated warehouses, drone deliveries, and AI-backed route optimisation to live up to the expectations of consumers for quick and reliable service.

• This is set to be a major growth driver for last-mile delivery services, providing new opportunities for moving and logistics companies specialising in urban delivery solutions.
• The need for next-day and same-day delivery services is pressurising businesses to innovate and expand their operations, which is a source of massive revenue for companies that can fill that demand.

International Trade and Cross-Border Logistics

Due to the strategic location of the UAE as a centre for international trade, the country is an ideal place for business enterprises dealing in international logistics. The opening up of trade corridors will escalate cross-border logistics services, which will add significantly to the GDP of the UAE.

• The B2C e-commerce is expected to grow steadily over the forecast period, recording a CAGR of 11.12% during 2023-2027.

Sustainability in Logistics: The Green Shift

As the concerns of the environment increase, sustainability becomes a major issue at the forefront in the logistics and moving sectors. The UAE is dedicated to cutting its carbon footprint and to achieving aggressive goals of sustainability. This transformation is driving businesses towards going for greener technologies and practices such as the use of electric vehicles (EVs), sustainable packaging, and energy-efficient warehouse systems.

The Green Logistics Market:

• The value of the UAE green logistics market was USD 18,892.9 million in the year 2024, and that of 2030 is expected to increase to USD 28,067.6 million. With the move to sustainability by businesses, the demand for eco-friendly logistics increases.
• Moving corporations are also changing to greener ways with the use of electric trucks and the ability to recycle packaging. This not only achieves a reduction in the environmental impact but also satisfies the increasing demand of consumers for sustainability.

Financial Benefits of Sustainability:

• Companies that are investing in sustainable practices are enjoying a 10-15% reduction in the cost of operations as a result of energy savings and optimised logistics operations.
• The companies that are advertising their eco-friendly activity are in a win-win situation because there are a lot of customers who are ready to spend more for environmentally responsible service.

The Road Ahead: Preparing for Future Opportunities in the UAE Logistics and Moving Sectors

The future of logistics and moving industries in the UAE is bright with opportunities, and it is due to further investments in its infrastructure, rapid integration of technology, and emerging demand from such industries as e-commerce and international trade.

What to Expect in the Coming Years:

Sustainability will be one of the major trends, with both logistics providers and moving companies aiming to decrease their footprint on the environment. Adoption of green logistics practices will not only help save the environment but also save businesses on costs through energy-efficient technologies.

• The introduction of robotics and automation will further enhance the level of efficiency in operations, thus eliminating the labour expenses of warehousing and delivery services. By adopting these technologies, the logistics and moving companies will be ahead of their competitors.
• Cross-border trade will also provide opportunities, especially for moving businesses that engage in international relocations. With the ever-growing global trade, industrial companies that have an infrastructure set up to handle international logistics will see an increase in demand.

Conclusion: Thriving in the UAE’s Dynamic Logistics and Moving Market

The future of the UAE logistics and moving industries is still bright, with continuous expansion due to continued investments in infrastructure, development in e-commerce, and technological developments. As companies promote their operations towards these trends, there are enormous opportunities to cash in on current revenues and future industry trends.

For companies providing moving and logistics, a focus on the latest technologies, sustainable practices, and the increase in services offered will be a necessity when striving to remain competitive and capture the lucrative market that the UAE market is currently developing.

Final Thoughts

• Adopt Agile Practices: Keeping flexible and adjusting to the changes of the market will keep your business competitive.
• Invest in Innovation: Integrating new technologies will help in the efficient operation, increase efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction.

Build a Strong Brand: Prioritise quality service, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions, and enable a memorable brand that is unique from the rest in the market.