Tradeling Holding, the B2B e-commerce arm of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), has finalized an agreement to acquire the MENA distribution operations of Axiom Telecom. This signing, observed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DIEZ, represents a transformative move that establishes Tradeling as a vital technology partner for global brands, with anticipated annual revenues surpassing AED2 billion.
Acquisition overview
In connection with this agreement, which was signed by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, executive chairman of DIEZ, and Abdul Aziz AlBannai, chairman of Axiom Telecom, Tradeling Holding will take over 100 percent of A&T Holding FZCO, the parent company of Axiom’s principal distribution businesses. These, Dubai Media Office reported, include Axiom Distribution FZCO (UAE), focused on technology distribution within the UAE and managing experience stores for leading mobile handset manufacturers; Axiom International Distribution FZCO (UAE), which oversees technology distribution in UAE free zones and global exports; and Axiom Telecom Saudi Arabia Co (KSA), providing technology distribution services throughout Saudi Arabia and in international markets.
Based in the Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ), Tradeling operates the largest B2B e-commerce platform in the MENA region. The platform serves over 50,000 clients and has achieved a remarkable fourfold increase in order volumes since 2023. In 2024 alone, Tradeling successfully shipped 3.3 million units, with expectations to exceed 3.5 million units by the end of the year. As a subsidiary of DIEZ, Tradeling benefits from the authority’s strategic vision, promoting innovation and stimulating economic growth in Dubai and beyond.
Driving growth and attracting business
Regarding the acquisition, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni noted that the acquisition marked a pivotal moment in Tradeling’s mission to transform the B2B e-commerce landscape in the Middle East. He explained that by combining Tradeling’s robust digital capabilities with Axiom’s well-established distribution networks, they were forging a powerhouse that would deliver unparalleled value to businesses throughout the region. He also mentioned that this historic transaction aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033, and added that Tradeling was poised to continue driving substantial growth and attracting global businesses looking to establish a foothold in the Middle East.
Enhancing trade connectivity
Al Zarooni further emphasized that Tradeling’s commitment to creating a more efficient and interconnected marketplace would significantly support Dubai’s vision of becoming a vibrant hub for trade, innovation, and digital commerce. He also indicated that this transaction would streamline the movement of goods and services, enhance trade connectivity, and improve the overall business climate in the region.
Read more: DIEZ posts record 64.6 percent surge in annual operating profit in 2024
Leveraging established infrastructure
Moreover, Fahad AlBannai, chief executive officer of Axiom Telecom, remarked that for over twenty years, Axiom had been a trusted name in technology distribution across the GCC. Additionally, he expressed that the transaction opened an exciting new chapter, enabling Tradeling to utilize their established infrastructure and market expertise to enhance its offerings. He conveyed pride in seeing Axiom’s legacy continue as part of Tradeling’s ambitious growth strategy.
Transforming technology distribution
Alastair Croker, chief executive officer (CEO) of Tradeling, emphasized that by integrating Axiom Telecom’s distribution business into their operations, they were not only expanding their capabilities but also transforming the technology distribution landscape across the MENA region. He stated that this strategic initiative allowed them to provide access to global brands while empowering businesses of all sizes to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. He also affirmed Tradeling’s commitment to positioning Dubai as a center for advanced trade and commerce while fostering a more connected ecosystem that supports business success.
This acquisition aligns with Tradeling’s mission to deliver innovative solutions in marketplace, distribution, warehousing, and logistics. By integrating Axiom’s expertise in technology distribution, Tradeling will enhance its service capabilities and client base, strengthen supplier relationships, and drive innovation within the region’s B2B ecosystem.
