Dubai, UAE, 10 September 2025: As global supply chains shift and costs rise, the Gulf’s industrial real estate sector is doubling down on its strengths of reliability, infrastructure, and talent. According to new analysis from Cushman & Wakefield Core, in collaboration with KEZAD Group, the UAE is positioning itself as a resilient hub for occupiers and investors seeking long-term efficiency over low-cost alone.
“APAC and CEE may still win on rent levels, but what we see in the UAE is occupiers choosing reliability and efficiency over just chasing the lowest cost,” said Tilana Kruger, Head of Industrial & Logistics at Cushman & Wakefield Core.
Cushman & Wakefield’s Waypoint: Global Industrial Dynamics 2025 report notes that Dubai and Abu Dhabi fall within the US$5-10 per square foot rent band - mid-tier globally - yet remain attractive because of the wider offer.
“Our clients take a far more holistic view of cost competitiveness,” said Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO of KEZAD Group. “Beyond rent, major considerations include energy tariffs, multimodal connectivity, workforce access, and time-to-market.”
KEZAD’s integrated ecosystem model exemplifies this approach by clustering suppliers, manufacturers, and logistics providers in one zone - cutting costs, shortening production cycles, and building resilience into supply chains.
“KEZAD is a good example of how clustering works in practice. Bringing suppliers, manufacturers and logistics into one place helps companies lower costs, speed up production, and strengthen supply chains,” Kruger added.
Sustainability is also climbing the agenda. KEZAD Utilities & Facilities Management operates a 100km gas network alongside renewable initiatives, while free zone operators in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are piloting carbon credit frameworks and AI-based energy monitoring tools.
“We’re seeing an increasing number of institutional investors entering the thriving logistics and industrial market with plans to develop sustainably. Advanced lighting, climate control, certifications, and smart building systems are now standard for new-builds,” said Ben Rose, Director of Capital Markets at Cushman & Wakefield Core. “New entrants like Prologis and Blackstone will further drive standards forward.”
Mohamed added: “Companies want long-term efficiency, not just low rent. They’re looking for energy stability, digital readiness, and speed to market. That’s where the UAE excels.”
While the Gulf may not compete on headline cost with emerging Asian markets, its differentiated offer -anchored in connectivity, stability, and ecosystem value - continues to attract occupiers and investors looking for certainty in a volatile global environment.
