Mideast carrier Gulf Air has entered into a one-year strategic global partnership with DHL Express.

As a result, DHL Express has become the airline's first partner to sign up to Gulf Air's Global Incentive Agreement Programme. This is designed to provide incentives to boost cargo volumes.

The agreement provides partners with access to permanent bookings, direct booking, regular interface with key account managers, specific service level commitments and service recovery plans, including claims processing.

"We are growing fast and will continue to invest and co-operate with key players to strengthen our position as the market leader. This tie-in with Gulf Air further increases DHL's worldwide coverage and leverages the strength of both companies," said DHL Express Middle East network planning and services manager Ross Wyeth.