In the rapidly evolving logistics landscape of Saudi Arabia, efficient storage solutions have become a cornerstone of supply chain success. Dry storage—warehousing designed for products that remain stable at room temperature—serves as the backbone for industries ranging from retail and e-commerce to manufacturing and food distribution. As the Kingdom accelerates toward its Vision 2030 goals, the demand for professional dry storage facilities in key commercial hubs has never been greater.
The Saudi dry warehousing market has demonstrated consistent growth, with revenues showing a CAGR of 2.8% during 2015-2019, and is expected to continue this upward trajectory through 2025 . For businesses operating in cities like Riyadh—the capital and main financial hub—access to reliable dry storage is not a luxury but a strategic necessity. Professional dry storage protects products from environmental challenges including extreme heat, dust, and humidity, ensuring that goods reach customers in perfect condition .
Dry Storage
Dry storage refers to warehousing facilities that maintain stable, room-temperature conditions for products that do not require refrigeration or freezing. These facilities are engineered to provide clean, dry, and well-organized spaces that shield products from dust, pests, and temperature fluctuations. Unlike chilled or frozen storage, dry storage does not use active refrigeration, but professional dry warehouses utilize advanced ventilation systems, strategic racking layouts, and smart monitoring systems that track humidity and temperature .
The range of products suitable for dry storage is extensive. In the retail and e-commerce sectors, dry storage accommodates electronics, clothing, toys, books, and household items. The food industry relies on dry storage for canned goods, dry grains, pasta, coffee, and packaged snacks. Industrial sectors use dry storage for tires, spare parts, tools, and raw materials . The rise in cross-border e-commerce has made dry storage facilities more popular, as they can accommodate a wide range of products that do not require specific temperature control.
While dry storage is more cost-effective than cold storage due to lower energy requirements, it still demands rigorous management. Key challenges include preventing pest infestations, managing humidity levels to avoid mold or corrosion, and ensuring proper air circulation. Professional dry warehouses utilize advanced ventilation systems, strategic racking layouts, and strict sanitation protocols to mitigate these risks .
Leading dry storage providers offer flexible contracts with options for month-to-month, 6-month, and 12-month durations, starting from as little as 10 square meters. Cloud-based Warehouse Management Systems provide complete inventory visibility, allowing clients to track stock levels, submit inbound requests, process outbound orders, and integrate with e-commerce platforms from anywhere.
Dry Storage in Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital and main financial hub of Saudi Arabia, represents a critical center for dry storage demand. The city’s position as the Kingdom’s commercial heart, combined with its rapidly growing population and expanding retail sector, creates substantial demand for warehousing. Industrial rents in Riyadh surged 16% in the first half of 2025, reaching an average of $55 per square metre, with occupancy rates remaining near full capacity at 98% . The demand for professional dry storage in Riyadh has surged as the city positions itself as a key logistics hub for both regional and international companies.
The industrial and logistics sectors are key components of the Kingdom’s Global Supply Chain Resilience Initiative, which aims to attract significant investments. Saudi Arabia is expected to invest SR327.9 billion ($87.20 billion) within various economic projects till 2025, driving market revenue in the logistics and transportation sector . The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), a key component of Vision 2030, aims to increase the logistics sector’s GDP contribution from 6% to 10% by 2030 .
Recent developments reflect the growing importance of Riyadh’s warehousing sector. New modern class A logistics complexes are being developed in Riyadh, featuring various storage options including dry storage, temperature-controlled facilities, as well as specialized spaces for pharmaceutical and hazardous goods. These facilities help meet the growing demand for modern logistics facilities in Riyadh, where demand is outstripping supply particularly for higher-quality assets .
For businesses in Riyadh, having dry storage locally reduces last-mile delivery distances to the central region significantly. With the rapid expansion of e-commerce platforms, the demand for storage facilities in urban centers like Riyadh has significantly increased. As online retailers seek faster delivery times, they are increasingly investing in local warehousing solutions that allow for quicker stock turnover and inventory management. Modern commerce and e-commerce are expected to contribute around 80% to the retail sector by 2030 .
Dry Storage in Saudi Arabia
Across the entire Kingdom, the demand for professional dry storage in Saudi Arabia spans every major city. Saudi Arabia’s dry logistics and warehousing market revenues have shown a CAGR growth of 2.8% during 2015 to 2019, with projections for continued growth . Jeddah holds a significant share of warehousing revenue, with its warehousing and logistics supply districts stretching across extensive areas near the Jeddah Islamic Port. Dammam also dedicates significant warehousing space to logistics parks, clustered among zones surrounding the city.
The rise of e-commerce is putting particular pressure on Saudi Arabia’s warehousing sector. Saudi Arabia is the largest e-commerce market in the GCC, supported by high internet penetration (97%), a young and tech-savvy population, and a growing consumer preference for online shopping . Businesses in this space need modern warehouses to receive, process, and ship product efficiently. The retail sector continues to drive warehousing demand, and the need for additional warehousing space continues to grow.
The Saudi government has been actively investing in its logistics and transportation infrastructure under Vision 2030, which includes expanding the warehousing and distribution sector. These investments include developing new logistics hubs, expanding existing ports, and enhancing transport networks that connect key cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam . The government has also introduced a technical regulation for dry and canned food storage facilities, establishing requirements for maintaining proper storage conditions to ensure food safety and quality .
Modern dry storage solutions offer businesses significant advantages over self-managed warehousing. Third-party providers bring expertise in inventory management, security, and operational efficiency. On-demand warehousing enables companies to access warehouse solutions on a temporary basis, leasing space as a way to cost-effectively address shifting demand. With SFDA certification, strict hygiene protocols, and 24/7 security monitoring, professional dry storage ensures product integrity and regulatory compliance .
Why Choose UNITS for Dry Storage
When it comes to premium dry storage solutions across the Kingdom, Units stands as the top company trusted by businesses seeking excellence. Operating through units.sa, Units provides efficient and secure warehousing solutions tailored to each client’s unique storage needs, with flexible contracts and a cutting-edge platform to manage inventory .
Their dry and ambient storage facilities feature optimized ventilation to prevent moisture damage, clean and well-organized layouts for easy access, 24/7 surveillance for maximum security, and full certification by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority . Units serves a wide range of products including electronics, apparel, tires, spare parts, household items, office supplies, books, documents, and industrial tools.
With coverage across Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, Units takes full responsibility for any damage caused by their handling, providing complete peace of mind . Their flexible contracts allow businesses to scale space according to their needs without long-term commitments. Visit units.sa to discover how professional dry storage can optimize your supply chain operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What types of products are suitable for dry storage in Riyadh and across Saudi Arabia?
Dry storage accommodates a wide range of products including electronics, clothing, toys, books, office supplies, tires, spare parts, industrial tools, canned goods, dry grains, pasta, coffee, and packaged snacks. Any product that remains stable at room temperature but requires protection from dust, heat, and humidity is suitable for dry storage .
2. What security measures should I expect from a dry storage facility in Saudi Arabia?
Professional dry storage facilities implement comprehensive security measures including 24/7 CCTV surveillance, strict access control with biometric or keycard entry, gated compound security, and fire suppression systems. Units provides these security features across all their warehouses.
3. Can I access my dry storage inventory remotely from anywhere?
Yes, modern dry storage providers offer cloud-based Warehouse Management Systems that provide complete inventory visibility. You can track stock levels, submit inbound requests, process outbound orders, generate reports on space utilization, and integrate with e-commerce platforms—all from anywhere. Units’ warehouses are open from Saturday to Thursday, 7 AM to 5 PM .
4. Are dry storage facilities in Saudi Arabia certified for food storage?
Yes, leading dry storage providers maintain certification from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) for food storage . Units’ warehouses are fully SFDA-certified, implementing strict hygiene protocols and contamination-free environments to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements for food safety.
5. What flexible contract options are available for dry storage?
Modern dry storage providers offer flexible contracts including month-to-month, 6-month, and 12-month options, with space available starting from as little as 10 square meters. This flexibility enables businesses of all sizes to access professional dry storage without long-term commitments or excessive minimum space requirements .
