DP World has introduced a new 36-hour maritime service connecting Dubai’s Mina Rashid with Iraq’s Umm Qasr Port, offering a faster and more predictable alternative to overland trucking and strengthening regional trade links.
The service was inaugurated at Mina Rashid with the official welcome of DP World Express, a dedicated roll-on roll-off vessel designed to carry up to 145 accompanied trailers per sailing. The vessel recently completed upgrades at Drydocks World and is scheduled to begin commercial operations in December 2025.
Senior officials from the UAE and Iraq attended the launch ceremony, highlighting the strategic importance of the corridor for cross-border trade. Among those present were DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Iraq’s Ambassador to the UAE Dr. Muzaffar Mustafa Al-Jubouri, and senior representatives from Dubai Customs, GDRFA, and DP World GCC.
The service will transport non-containerised full trailer units, with drivers travelling onboard, providing a direct door-to-door solution between the UAE and Iraq. It is designed to reduce handling, simplify planning, and improve reliability for businesses moving goods across borders. The route also enables onward transit to neighbouring markets, including Jordan and Syria, through established inland networks.
DP World said the new corridor responds to strong market demand for faster and more controlled trailer movements while supporting two-way trade. On return voyages, DP World Express will carry Iraqi export cargo back to the UAE, improving asset utilisation and supply chain efficiency.
The service further expands DP World’s integrated logistics offering and is expected to deliver sustainability benefits by lowering carbon emissions compared to alternative transport options.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
