Dubai to hub multi-million dollar global satellite service shipping deal

The agreement will generate millions of dollars of annual freight value through the company's logistics management center in Jebel Ali Free Zone. Mr. Salim Rais, director of Rais Hassan Saadi Group, said: "This is a triumph for Jebel Ali Free Zone against other distribution hubs in Europe. It confirms the global leadership of the zone and the vital role it plays in the economic development of the UAE."

Inmarsat Regional BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) was launched at the end of 2002. GPRS-compatible, the wireless mobile service provides up to144kbit/s data communication facility that works where terrestrial infrastructure does not exist or lacks the necessary data attributes. Regional BGAN extends the reach of the corporate office giving business users remote access to corporate networks, to the Internet, to email, to set up a Virtual Private Network and manage file transfers from virtually anywhere within the footprint of 99 countries across the Middle East, North and Central Africa, Europe and the Indian Subcontinent.

Ahmed Butti Ahmed, Managing Director, Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, said, "We are delighted that JAFZ is the chosen distribution hub for this strategic agreement and it could not come at a more opportune time as JAFZ enters a new era of strategic development. In addition to our traditional package of incentives, value-added

attractions and facilities, JAFZ is proactively broadening its vision, and its clients business options, by expanding into related territories such as niche free zones and cluster areas, including logistics operations."

Mr. Madhav Kurup, general manager for Trident Freight said: "We are delighted at the scope of work under this contract, because it reflects the direction in which logistics business is going. Our global network of more than 1000 offices through our global partner Geologistics along with state of the art infrastructure at Jebel Ali Free Zone will provide seamless supply chain for Inmarsat customers. Our fully integrated IT systems will provide visibility of Inmarsat Regional BGAN satellite modems, while in the hub, as well as in transit, apart from online ordering, inventory status, freight and insurance quotes etc."

"Along with creating a healthy environment to hub the interests of global businesses in the region, the UAE continues to deliver opportunities for its local companies to contribute in the growth of their national economy. With one of the most advanced technological platforms and an excellent air connection through Dubai airport, the Jebel Ali Free Zone has today an infrastructure that complements its strategic geographical location. Trident Freight has built a global shipping model that leverages the JAFZ's advantages, allowing it to win global contracts," said Samer Halawi, regional director for Inmarsat.