DP World signs 50-year deal to build two new container ports in Fujairah

Dubai-based DP World and the Fujairah Ports Authority have signed a preliminary 50-year agreement to develop two multi-purpose container ports, expanding the UAE’s maritime infrastructure and logistics capacity.

The agreement covers the development of Al Rughailat Container Port and Dibba Al Fujairah Port, a project designed to strengthen the country’s trade connectivity, increase cargo handling capacity, and improve access to regional and international shipping routes.

The development will create a new deep-water trade gateway in Fujairah capable of accommodating the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels.

Once completed, Al Rughailat Container Port will be able to handle up to 2.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually, along with 1.7 million tons of general cargo and 190,000 car equivalent units (CEUs). Dibba Al Fujairah Port will add a further 3.6 million tons of annual general cargo handling capacity.

Both ports will be integrated with dedicated logistics zones, creating an interconnected trade and logistics network along the Arabian Sea.

The expansion will increase DP World’s total container handling capacity in the UAE from 19.4 million TEUs to nearly 22 million TEUs, while also strengthening its capacity to handle general cargo and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) traffic.

The new terminals will be linked to Jebel Ali Port through DP World’s logistics network and integrated with Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), enabling more efficient movement of goods between ports, logistics hubs, and end markets across the UAE.

The project will be delivered in phases, with construction expected to take between 24 and 30 months from the start of work.

Officials said the development will reinforce Fujairah’s position as a global maritime hub, leveraging its strategic location on the Arabian Sea and direct access to major international shipping lanes. The project is also expected to attract investment, create jobs, and support the emirate’s long-term economic growth.

The agreement was signed in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, Essa Kazim, Chairman of DP World Group, and Mousa Murad, Director of Fujairah Port.