Warehouse Automation On Rapid Growth Trajectory in the Middle East

The logistics landscape in the Middle East has experienced significant transformation in recent years, driven by rapid e‑commerce growth, government policies, and major corporate investments.

Warehouse automation technologies like robotics and AI-enabled systems are playing a pivotal role. Below, we explore the key developments shaping this sector.

Market Growth and Robotics Adoption

From US$340 million 2024, the Middle East warehouse robotics market is projected to reach US$715 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.2% starting in 2025.

This growth is largely fueled by the rapid expansion of e‑commerce and proactive digitization policies across the region.

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Similarly, the broader MEA warehouse automation market (including hardware, software, and services) generated US$677.6 million in revenue in 2024. Software stands out as the fastest-growing segment, while hardware remains the largest contributor to revenue.

Project Deployments

A standout development is the surge in Swisslog’s in warehouse automation across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Early in 2025 Swisslog announced major project wins that collectively exceeded US$60 million. These included warehouse management systems (WMS), pallet automation, small-goods automated solutions, and AutoStore systems designed for high-density storage.

This year, DHL Group has announced investment of over US$570 million in the Middle East through 2030. These investments target enhanced logistics infrastructure, including warehouse expansion, equipment upgrades, and automation technologies.

The Supply Chain division will specifically focus on expanding warehousing capabilities and integrating advanced automation, underscoring the region’s strategic importance in global trade.

AI, predictive analytics and intralogistics

Beyond hardware, AI and analytics are increasingly central to logistics automation in the Middle East region. Businesses are adopting AI and predictive analytics to transition from traditional inventory methods to “smart warehousing” enhancing forecasting, inventory optimization, and agility.

Intralogistics trends including the broader adoption of robotics, AI, and sustainable practices, are all transforming Middle East warehouses.

Region Poised for Smart Logistics

Warehouse automation in the Middle East has been tracking a marked upward trajectory post the COVID pandemic.

The synergistic growth in robotics adoption, major solution deployments by companies like Swisslog, and large-scale investments from supply chain giants like DHL signal a strategic shift toward efficient, future-proof warehousing.

AI and predictive analytics are underpinning smarter operations, while multi-temperature and modular systems provide flexible storage solutions across diverse goods types. These trends reflect the region’s broader ambition of transforming into a logistics powerhouse.

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