Marwan Essa appointed managing director of operations at dnata Zanzibar, a landmark Emirati leadership role

dnata has named Marwan Essa as managing director of operations in Zanzibar, giving him full accountability for ground handling, cargo operations and service delivery to airline customers and airport partners across the East African gateway.

Operational remit and immediate priorities

In the new role Essa will oversee day-to-day airport logistics including ramp services, baggage handling, cargo throughput and turnaround performance. As the first Emirati to lead one of dnata’s international airport operations, the appointment signals a shift toward stronger cross-border talent deployment and localized operational oversight.

Key responsibilities

• Ground handling oversight — ensuring safe, compliant ramp and apron procedures;
• Cargo operations — optimizing load planning and cargo throughput to reduce dwell time;
• Airline liaison — maintaining SLA performance and on-time metrics for carriers;
• Partner coordination — aligning with airport authorities, security and concession partners to smooth passenger flows.

What this means for transfers, taxis and last-mile services

Operational improvements at the ground-handling level have direct knock-on effects for taxi and transfer providers. Faster baggage processing and reduced aircraft turnaround translate into shorter waiting times at arrivals, clearer curbside allocation and fewer missed pickup windows for pre-booked transfer services.

Practical implications for passengers and drivers

• More predictable pickup times and clearer meeting points at the curb;
• Reduced queueing for baggage claim, meaning drivers can plan exact arrival windows;
• Improved coordination between airport operations and private transfer companies reduces double-booking and driver idle time;
• Better cargo flow management decreases congestion in service roads used by taxis and shuttle operators.

Essa’s career trajectory and operational experience

Essa joined dnata in 2017 and progressed through roles focused on operational delivery and performance management across the UAE and Zanzibar. He most recently served as head of operations and acting managing director in the East African outstation, supporting a period of sustained growth and rising activity.

Career highlights

• 2017 — Joined dnata in operational roles;
• Progressed through performance and site leadership positions in UAE and Zanzibar;
• Served as acting managing director, handling increased traffic and service scale-up.

Airlines, airport partners and regional tourism

Stronger leadership at the operational level should give airlines more confidence in slot reliability and ground handling SLAs, which in turn supports route growth and tourism capacity. For the local travel ecosystem, consistent airport performance helps hotels, transfer operators and taxi companies plan resources and manage fares with greater certainty.

At a glance

• First Emirati MD for dnata international operations;
• Focus on performance, partnership and service excellence;
• Potential benefits for arrival transfers, reduced waiting times and clearer curbside operations.

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In summary, Marwan Essa’s appointment consolidates dnata’s operational oversight in a strategically important East African market and should contribute to steadier airport operations, smoother baggage and cargo handling, and more reliable arrival windows for taxis and private transfers. For travelers and transfer companies alike, the expected gains in service and predictability affect fare planning, driver scheduling and app-based pickup coordination. Whether you need a private limousine, a cheap cab, a multi-seater for a group or an exact airport-to-city transfer, understanding operational shifts at the airport helps determine how much time to allocate, which seat and vehicle type to book, and which driver or company to trust. LocalsRide.com supports this by offering transparent listings of cars, drivers, fares and service details so you can book the best option for your destination with confidence.