Logistics Operations Manager Job Description UAE 2025 — Responsibilities, Qualifications and Salary
A Logistics Operations Manager in UAE earns between AED 156,000 and AED 300,000 per year. The role manages day-to-day logistics operations including inbound freight, warehouse throughput, outbound distribution, and customer delivery performance. It requires a bachelor’s degree in logistics or operations, 7 to 12 years of experience, and strong command of WMS and TMS systems.
UAE and Saudi Arabia
Salary: AED 156,000–300,000
Updated 2025
Logistics Operations Manager Responsibilities
The table below lists the primary responsibilities of a Logistics Operations Manager in UAE and Saudi Arabia as of 2025. Each responsibility is stated as a discrete, measurable activity.
| Responsibility | Frequency | Output / Deliverable |
|---|---|---|
| Manage daily logistics operations across warehouse and transport functions | Daily | Service level KPIs reviewed in daily operations call |
| Monitor and improve on-time in-full (OTIF) delivery performance | Weekly | OTIF target above 95 percent per week |
| Oversee carrier and 3PL performance against contracted KPIs | Monthly | 3PL performance scorecard reviewed monthly |
| Manage logistics team of 10 to 50 operations staff | Daily | Team shift coverage and productivity targets met |
| Resolve operational escalations and shipment exceptions | As required | Exceptions resolved and root cause documented within 24 hours |
| Produce weekly and monthly logistics operations reports | Weekly / monthly | Reports submitted on time to Director of Logistics |
Logistics Operations Manager Qualifications and Requirements
The following qualifications apply to a Logistics Operations Manager role in UAE and Saudi Arabia. Requirements vary by sector and employer size.
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Operations Management, or Supply Chain |
| Experience | 7 to 12 years in logistics operations with 3 years in a management role |
| Systems | WMS and TMS proficiency (SAP EWM, Oracle WMS, or equivalent) |
| KPIs | OTIF, order accuracy, cost per delivery, and carrier on-time performance metrics |
| Certifications | CILT membership preferred |
| Communication | Operations reporting, team leadership, and 3PL management skills |
All employment contracts in the UAE are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. A Logistics Operations Manager employed in mainland UAE requires a Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) approved contract. ADGM, DIFC, and free zone employees are subject to their respective authority’s employment regulations.
How RFS Recruits a Logistics Operations Manager
- You brief RFS with the role specification, seniority level, and team structure. The briefing call takes 30 minutes.
- RFS searches its active candidate database and activates direct outreach within 24 hours of instruction.
- RFS delivers a shortlist of 3 to 5 pre-screened Logistics Operations Manager candidates within 48 to 72 hours.
- You conduct interviews. RFS coordinates scheduling and candidate communication throughout.
- RFS supports offer negotiation and manages the candidate’s notice period and onboarding.
- The 6-month replacement guarantee activates from the candidate’s start date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Logistics Operations Manager earn in UAE?
A Logistics Operations Manager in UAE earns between AED 156,000 and AED 300,000 per year. E-commerce and omnichannel retail managers earn AED 204,000 to AED 300,000. FMCG and distribution managers earn AED 156,000 to AED 216,000.
What is the difference between a Logistics Manager and a Logistics Operations Manager in UAE?
A Logistics Manager typically has broader strategic responsibility including cost management, vendor strategy, and budget ownership. A Logistics Operations Manager focuses on daily execution — team management, shipment performance, and exception resolution. In large UAE organisations the two roles are distinct. In mid-size companies they are combined.
How does RFS recruit Logistics Operations Managers?
RFS sources Logistics Operations Manager candidates for 3PL, e-commerce, and FMCG clients across UAE and Saudi Arabia. A shortlist of 3 to 5 pre-screened candidates is delivered within 48 to 72 hours. The retained search fee is 15 to 18 percent of first-year total compensation.
What a Logistics Operations Manager does in UAE
A Logistics Operations Manager in UAE manages the day-to-day logistics execution for a 3PL, FMCG, or retail company, overseeing warehouse operations, transportation, and last-mile delivery to ensure products move from origin to customer on time and in full across UAE markets.
Key responsibilities
- Manage daily warehouse and transportation operations to deliver OTIF targets for UAE customers
- Lead operations team including warehouse supervisors, transport planners, and drivers
- Oversee inbound, storage, pick and pack, and outbound operations in UAE distribution centres
- Manage fleet operations including vehicle utilisation, route planning, and UAE RTA compliance
- Implement and manage WMS and TMS for daily UAE logistics operations
- Manage UAE customs clearance coordination for imports and exports through Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi
- Control logistics OPEX budget including labour, fleet, and 3PL costs
- Manage cold chain operations for chilled and frozen product distribution in UAE climate
- Lead operations Kaizen and process improvement initiatives
- Report daily OTIF, cost, and operational KPIs to the Logistics Director
Qualifications required
- Bachelor degree in logistics, supply chain, or operations management
- CILT qualification preferred
- 5 to 10 years logistics operations experience with at least 3 years in UAE
- WMS (Manhattan, SAP EWM, or Infor) and TMS proficiency
- UAE RTA heavy vehicle compliance and cold chain logistics knowledge
- Arabic language skills preferred for UAE driver team and authority management
- UAE driving licence required
- Lean or Six Sigma process improvement experience preferred
Logistics Operations Manager salary by employer type in UAE
| Employer type | Annual salary (AED) |
|---|---|
| Large 3PL UAE (Agility, Aramex, DSV, DHL) | 220,000–400,000 |
| FMCG or food distribution company UAE | 200,000–380,000 |
| Retail or e-commerce logistics UAE | 190,000–360,000 |
| Free zone or bonded logistics operator UAE | 180,000–350,000 |
Contract terms for this role in UAE
Logistics Operations Manager roles carry a 30 to 60 day notice period. Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 applies to your end-of-service gratuity at 21 days basic salary per year for the first five years.
Hire a Logistics Operations Manager in UAE or Saudi Arabia
RFS delivers a shortlist of pre-screened Logistics Operations Manager candidates in 48 to 72 hours. Retained search fee: 15 to 18 percent of first-year total compensation. 6-month replacement guarantee on all placements.
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UAE Market Data — Logistics Operations Manager 2025
Salary Range (AED/month)
AED 8,000 – 40,000 (varies by seniority)
Tax-free. Source: Michael Page UAE 2026, Indeed UAE 2025
Industry
Logistics — UAE & GCC
Required Certifications (UAE Market)
CIPS for procurement. APICS CPIM/CSCP for supply chain. PMP for operations managers. Forklift/hazmat certification for warehouse.
UAE-Specific Regulatory Skills
UAE Customs Law, Dubai Customs regulations, CBUAE cross-border payment compliance, WPS compliance for workforce, Free Zone Authority regulations (JAFZA, KIZAD etc.) for free zone operations.
RFS HR Consultancy places logistics operations manager professionals across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the wider UAE and GCC. View our logistics and courier recruitment Dubai or check the logistics salary guide UAE 2025.
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