Dubai’s DP World hits $11bn investment milestone in 10 years

DP World’s container handling capacity has surged past 100 million TEUs, a substantial increase from 75.6 million TEUs in 2014, fuelled by more than $11bn (Dhs40.4bn) in investments over the past decade, according to the Dubai Media Office.

The logistics giant’s capacity has expanded by 33 per cent, driven by a combination of global expansion projects, including greenfield developments and acquisitions across the supply chain, from warehousing to transportation.

DP World’s gross container handling capacity surged by 5 per cent over the past year, solidifying the state-owned firm’s 9.2 per cent global market share. The expansion enhances the company’s ability to meet growing demand and extend its reach within the global supply chain.

“Crossing the 100 million TEU mark is a momentous milestone in our journey, which began 45 years ago. We are confident that the global container market will continue to grow in the years ahead and we will have the capacity to service it,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and chief executive of DP World.

With global container throughput expected to grow by 2.8 per cent in 2024, according to Drewry Container Forecaster, DP World has undertaken substantial investments spanning multiple countries across the globe.

The company is developing new ports in Senegal and India, complementing its existing infrastructure, multimodal transportation, and logistics services to better connect businesses with their customers.

“Over the last 20 years, we have invested in ports and terminals across the world, often in less traditional and underdeveloped trade markets, where our socio-economic impact has been significant. One of the major highlights of 2024 has been our takeover of the Dar es Salaam facility in Tanzania, which has not been developed since the 1950s,” said Tiemen Meester, COO of Ports & Terminals at DP World.

Last month, DP World commenced maritime works at the Port of Ndayane, marking a major step in the development of the $1.2bn project to transform Senegal into a major global trade hub. Phase 1 of the project includes an 840m quay and a 5 km channel capable of accommodating the world’s largest container ships and handling 1.2 million TEUs annually.

The second phase of the project, which adds a 410-meter quay, will position Ndayane as a leading logistics hub in West Africa upon completion.

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