DP World

DP World is a multinational logistics company headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, specializing in cargo logistics, port terminal operations, maritime services, and free trade zones.

The company was officially formed in 2005 through the merger of Dubai Ports Authority, which managed ports in the UAE including Port Rashid and Jebel Ali, and Dubai Ports International, the global port operator that began expanding Dubai's port operations internationally since 1999.

Since its founding, DP World has grown to operate 82 marine and inland terminals across more than 40 countries on six continents, handling around 70 million containers annually, which represents roughly 10% of global container traffic.

DP World’s origins trace back to 1972 with the establishment of Port Rashid in Dubai, followed by the opening of Jebel Ali Port in 1979. Dubai Ports Authority combined these assets by 1991, while Dubai Ports International (DPI) was launched in 1999 to extend operations worldwide.

DPI’s early projects included terminals in Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, India, and Romania. A major expansion occurred in 2006 when DP World acquired the British company P&O, becoming one of the largest port operators globally. However, the acquisition led to controversy over security concerns in the United States, prompting DP World to divest its US port operations.

Over the years, DP World has diversified beyond port operations, expanding into industrial parks, logistics, marine services, and economic zones, positioning itself as a comprehensive global trade enabler.

The company went public in 2007 on the NASDAQ Dubai stock exchange, conducting the largest IPO in the Middle East at that time. DP World continues to focus on innovation and expansion in emerging markets, refining supply chain solutions and enhancing global maritime trade.

With a workforce of over 50,000 people operating in 150 locations worldwide, DP World plays a pivotal role in global commerce, contributing significantly to trade facilitation and economic development.

It is also part of Dubai World, the emirate's investment conglomerate that supports Dubai’s strategic economic interests. DP World exemplifies Dubai's transformation into a leading global logistics and maritime center, driven by ongoing investments in technology and infrastructure.