DP World has signed a 50-year concession agreement with the Fujairah Ports Authority to develop two new deep-water terminals on the UAE’s east coast, reinforcing the country’s logistics infrastructure and expanding trade capacity beyond the Strait of Hormuz.
The project includes the development of the Al Rugaylat Container and Multipurpose Terminal and the Dibba General Cargo Terminal, further strengthening the UAE’s position as a regional and global logistics hub.
Container Capacity to Reach Nearly 22 Million TEUs
Once operational, the new facilities will increase DP World’s total container handling capacity in the UAE from 19.4 million to nearly 22 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
The Al Rugaylat terminal will have the capacity to handle up to 2.5 million TEUs annually, in addition to 1.7 million tonnes of general cargo and approximately 190,000 car equivalent units (CEUs).
The Dibba terminal will add capacity for up to 3.6 million tonnes of general cargo each year, further expanding the UAE’s cargo-handling capabilities.
Integrated with Jebel Ali Logistics Network
Both terminals will be designed to accommodate ultra-large container vessels and will be connected to Jebel Ali Port through DP World’s inland logistics network, providing end-to-end supply chain connectivity across the UAE.
The integrated logistics model is expected to improve cargo movement between the country’s east and west coasts while enhancing operational flexibility for shipping lines and logistics providers.
Construction Scheduled Over 24 to 30 Months
Construction will be carried out in phases over an estimated 24 to 30 months. DP World did not disclose the value of the investment.
The expansion comes as the UAE continues investing in alternative trade corridors and logistics infrastructure, reducing dependence on shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz while strengthening supply chain resilience.
Supporting Long-Term Trade Growth
DP World Chairman Essa Kazim said the investment reflects the company’s long-term confidence in the UAE’s position as one of the world’s leading trade and logistics hubs.
“The UAE has been at the heart of DP World’s story for more than four decades, and this investment reflects our confidence in its future as one of the world’s leading trade and logistics hubs.”
Group CEO Yuvraj Narayan added that the new terminals will provide additional capacity to support the company’s long-term growth strategy as Jebel Ali Port continues to operate at high utilization levels.
Why It Matters
The Fujairah expansion strengthens the UAE’s position as a global logistics gateway by increasing container capacity, enhancing east coast maritime infrastructure, and providing greater flexibility for international trade. As supply chains become increasingly focused on resilience and route diversification, investments in deep-water ports outside the Strait of Hormuz are likely to play an increasingly strategic role in regional and global commerce.
