Olivier Laurent
CEO RailDirect
Olivier Laurent is a seasoned logistics leader with more than 17 years of experience across the GCC, combining strategic rail-corridor development with a deep operational foundation in freight forwarding.
As CEO of Rail Direct, he drives the expansion of multimodal rail-and-road freight solutions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, promoting ESG-focused modal shift, cross-border compliance, and seamless customs connectivity.
His earlier career—spanning senior roles such as Vice-President at Toll Global Forwarding, Country Manager & Regional sector Head as DHL —equipped him with hands-on expertise in air, sea, and land freight operations, P&L management, carrier negotiations, and leading large multicultural teams.
This combined background positions him as a compelling voice on the future of integrated logistics and the evolution of freight networks across the Gulf.
2026 Event Agenda Sessions
The GCC Rail Network Revolution
With ambitions to move 95 million tonnes of freight annually by 2045, rail is set to become the missing link in GCC logistics – reducing port congestion, cutting carbon footprints, and reshaping cargo movement. However, the network is at an early stage, and integration with project cargo and breakbulk logistics is incomplete. This session will focus on how soon – and how far – rail can support the scale and complexity of project logistics across the region, and will examine the operational hurdles around financing, interoperability, wagons, and terminals.
Thursday 05 February 10:30 - 11:15 Main Stage
Project Activity
With ambitions to move 95 million tonnes of freight annually by 2045, rail is set to become the missing link in GCC logistics – reducing port congestion, cutting carbon footprints, and reshaping cargo movement. However, the network is at an early stage, and integration with project cargo and breakbulk logistics is incomplete. This session will focus on how soon – and how far – rail can support the scale and complexity of project logistics across the region, and will examine the operational hurdles around financing, interoperability, wagons, and terminals.
Main Stage Asia/Dubai
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