Amazon grows storage capacity in the UAE to meet demand

The e-commerce giant has created 2,000 new jobs in the Emirates this year

Amazon has seen its business boom after stay-at-home directives to contain Covid-19 prompted people to shop online. Courtesy Amazon

Amazon has increased its storage capacity by over 45 per cent across its fulfilment network and opened a new delivery station in the UAE, creating more than 2,000 new permanent and seasonal jobs, the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

The e-commerce giant now has more than 2.4 million cubic feet of storage capacity when counting its own network and space occupied through third partners as it looks to meet growing demand, it said.

“Amazon’s investment in strengthening operations reflects our long-term commitment to delivering a world-class customer experience for our customers and partners in the UAE,” Prashant Saran, director of operations for Amazon Middle East and North Africa, said.

“We feel a deep responsibility to the communities where we operate … and the creation of thousands of new jobs will benefit the entire country,” he added.

Amazon began its seven-day White Friday sale in the region on Tuesday, offering customers up to 70 per cent in discounts when shopping online.

“Our goal is to ensure that customers across the country are able to get what they want from the comfort of their home while prioritising the health and safety of our associates, partners and customers,” Mr Saran said.

The company said it has implemented more than 150 safety measures for employees, associates and drivers to prevent the spread of Covid-19. These include new processes and space planning to ensure social distancing, extra sanitisation stations, the provision of face coverings and daily temperature checks.

The company has seen its business boom after stay-at-home directives to contain Covid-19 prompted people to shop online. Its shares have surged more than 70 per cent this year.

To meet growing demand, Amazon has been on a hiring spree in many countries across the world.

In September, the company said it is adding 10,000 new permanent jobs and 20,000 seasonal positions in the UK, and 100,000 new permanent and part-time employees in the US and Canada as it expands operations.