Dnata Cargo, Kanoo and SDV International Logistics, France, have joined forces to create what is likely to become one of the UAE's largest logistics solutions providers.

SDV will have a 49 per cent share in the new company SDV-UAE LLC, while Kanoo and Dnata will equally own 51 per cent stake.

The new company will be run by a board of directors comprising Jean Pierre De Pauw, Dnata; Mishal Kanoo of  Kanoo and Herbert de St Simon and Tony Stenning of SDV.

“This move is great news for the UAE. SDV is one of the largest global logistics companies with an enviable track record and the fact that they are keen to move into the market in this region is testament to the growth and success of Dubai as a transport hub," Gary Chapman, president of Dnata, said after signing the agreement.

"Dnata Cargo is delighted to be partnering with such an internationally-respected brand and we look forward to working together as SDV-UAE," he added.

St Simon said the company had been looking at having a permanent presence in Dubai for a few years now.

"Dubai is one of the biggest transport hubs in the world and it makes every sense for us to be here. Dubai is growing very quickly and is a rapidly emerging market. It was one of the few strong cargo hubs around the world in which we did not have a presence."

"We already know this market well, having done business here through FreightWorks for the last 12 years and now look forward to being here in partnership with Dnata and Kanoo as SDV-UAE," he added.

Kanoo said: “Dnata and Kanoo have enjoyed working together for a number of years under the Dubai Express – FreightWorks banner. The formation of SDV-UAE allows us to move onto a new level and we are looking forward to taking our partnership forward into this very promising international dimension.”

Stenning expressed delight at the partnership with Dnata Cargo and Kanoo. "Both companies are leaders in their fields and are well respected in their areas of operation. Their local expertise together with SDV’s international presence, reputation and experience will ensure SDV-UAE becomes a major player in this rapidly expanding market,” he added.

Through SDV, SDV-UAE will have exclusive access to a worldwide network of SDV offices and will be well placed to service projects and multinational contracts in this market.

The addition of Dubai to SDV’s worldwide network also ensures the company will be better able to take advantage of the largely untapped African market, said a top official.-TradeArabia News Service