DP World Achieves Record-Breaking Trade Volumes at Jebel Ali Port

Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port has achieved its highest container and breakbulk cargo volumes since 2015, reaffirming its position as the region’s premier trade and logistics hub.

DP World reported handling 15.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2024, marking a significant increase of 1 million TEUs from the previous year. This milestone accounts for nearly 18% of DP World’s total global container throughput of 88.3 million TEUs.

Breakbulk cargo also experienced remarkable growth, soaring by 23% year-on-year to reach 5.4 million metric tonnes (MTs)—the second-highest performance in nearly a decade. The surge was driven by increasing infrastructure, renewable energy, and industrial investments across the region.

“This performance reflects the strength of our world-class ports and logistics infrastructure,”

said Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director, DP World GCC.

“With a thriving ecosystem in Jebel Ali Free Zone and strong global ties, we are well-positioned to support growing trade volumes. Despite global uncertainties, we remain committed to investing in advanced infrastructure to facilitate trade.”

The growth in container throughput was attributed to strong demand from Asia and the Indian Subcontinent, enhanced global connectivity through new shipping services, and efficient operations despite challenges such as the Red Sea crisis. Meanwhile, breakbulk cargo was bolstered by the increasing demand for construction materials, wind turbines, solar panels, and heavy machinery, with imports making up 80% of shipments.

Jebel Ali Port played a key role in major international projects in 2024, including humanitarian aid shipments, structural steel exports for an aluminium recycling plant in the US, and logistics support for Liberia’s largest mining project.

With an annual container capacity of 19.4 million TEUs, over 100 berths, and a 25-kilometre quay length, Jebel Ali remains a critical gateway for trade. DP World’s global network of ports also recorded a record 88.3 million TEUs in 2024, reflecting an 8.3% year-on-year increase despite economic headwinds.

News Source: Dubai Media Office