DHL UAE is to open a 10,000 sq ft logistics centre in the Dubai Airport Free Zone at the beginning of next year.

The Dh500,000 ($136,000) centre will be equipped with the latest Chameleon DHL proprietary inventory management system, said DHL UAE general manager David Wild.

At the new DHL Logistics Centre the company will provide third-party storage, pick-and-pack, warehousing, stock control and distribution services.

"With cargo shipment coming totally within the company's control, as opposed to being outsourced, customers will benefit from later cut-off times for overnight deliveries and from improved capabilities," said Wild.

Meanwhile, DHL International is to invest about $1 million in Bahrain to expand its trucking network and introduce new technology for easy customs clearance.

The electronic customs clearance solution will enable Bahrain customers to receive their shipments a half-day earlier, a DHL official said.

In another development, DHL UAE has signed an integrated express logistics deal with 3D Mall - the world's first 3D e-commerce shopping site. The site, www.first3dmall.com, allows customers to zoom in, rotate, choose and purchase goods from a cyber showroom, complete with online sales people.