Technology

Zelostech has emerged as the winner of DHL’s Fast Forward Challenge in the Middle East & Africa (MEA), a prestigious startup program aimed at fostering innovation in logistics and supply chain solutions. The competition, held during the 4th edition of the Investopia Summit in Abu Dhabi, featured five finalists presenting groundbreaking technologies designed to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the logistics sector.

The Fast Forward Challenge MEA, organized by DHL Middle East & Africa Innovation Center, provides a platform for startups to showcase their innovative approaches to addressing future challenges in logistics. This year’s finalists introduced a diverse range of solutions, including AI-driven human resource analytics, automation-integrated labor solutions, and fully autonomous delivery robots and vehicles.

Zelostech’s winning innovation is a fully electric, autonomous delivery vehicle designed for urban logistics. The company, which has already deployed 3,000 vehicles across China and Singapore, has accumulated nine million kilometers of Level 4-autonomous driving. With its victory, Zelostech aims to expand operations into the UAE and the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market.

Industry Leaders Recognize the Importance of Innovation

Commenting on the win, Jason Wang, UAE-Country Manager of Zelostech, stated, “It was an honor to be among such pioneering startups. Our autonomous delivery solution has already proven successful in major international markets, and we are eager to bring this technology to the UAE.”

Irina Albanese, Head of Innovation, Middle East & Africa at DHL, congratulated Zelostech on its achievement, emphasizing the importance of innovation in shaping the logistics industry. “The level of maturity and creativity showcased by this year’s finalists was remarkable. With our Fast Forward Challenge, we offer a platform for startups to present their ideas, receive mentorship, and connect with venture capitalists. This is truly an ecosystem of opportunities.”

The competition was hosted as part of Investopia, a UAE-based global investment platform initiated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Investopia aims to connect investors with emerging opportunities in new and evolving economies.

Judging and Prize Benefits

The five shortlisted startups presented their solutions to a panel of nine judges with extensive expertise in business, logistics, and technology. The evaluation criteria focused on innovation, feasibility, and potential industry impact. As the winner, Zelostech will receive extensive mentorship, media exposure, trade license support, and access to the Ignyte platform to accelerate its business growth. Furthermore, Zelostech will have the opportunity to conduct a Proof of Concept (PoC) with DHL or Dubai South to explore practical applications of its technology.

Collaboration and Future Prospects

The Fast Forward Challenge MEA 2025 was organized in partnership with Investopia, PwC Middle East, Dubai South, Logistics Middle East, tech startup AHOY, and other prominent supporters of startup innovation.

David Tabet, Chief Operating Officer of Investopia, praised the challenge’s role in fostering innovation: “Hosting DHL’s Fast Forward Challenge at Investopia’s 4th edition was a privilege. Logistics and supply chain management are at the heart of the new economy, and this competition has showcased the industry’s transformative potential.”

Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District at Dubai South, reaffirmed the emirate’s commitment to supporting pioneering logistics solutions: “Dubai South is dedicated to advancing the logistics sector, and programs like the Fast Forward Challenge play a crucial role in driving the industry forward.”

Industry Partners Applaud Innovation

Dominik Baumeister, Partner and Global Transport & Logistics Lead at PwC Middle East, underscored the significance of the challenge: “Innovation is central to PwC Middle East’s strategy, and this program continues to make a tangible impact on the logistics landscape. We look forward to seeing how these startups shape the future of the industry.”

Jamil Shinawi, Co-founder and CEO of AHOY, congratulated Zelostech on its victory: “Zelostech’s innovative approach to logistics is commendable. Initiatives like the Fast Forward Challenge are crucial in fostering groundbreaking solutions that address real-world challenges.”

With its victory, Zelostech is set to redefine urban logistics in the UAE and beyond, leveraging autonomous technology to enhance efficiency, reduce emissions, and support the region’s growing demand for sustainable logistics solutions.

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