DP World has signed a 30-year concession agreement with Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports to develop and operate the Port of Tartus, committing $800 million to modernize the facility and position it as a key trade hub for the region.
Signed in Damascus, the deal marks a significant step in Syria’s post-conflict economic recovery. The agreement was formalized by DP World Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, in the presence of President Ahmed Al-Sharaa.
Under the Build-Operate-Transfer model, DP World will fully own and manage the redevelopment, which includes new infrastructure, modern cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to boost operational efficiency.
Located on the Mediterranean, Tartus is Syria’s second-largest port and holds strategic value as a maritime gateway connecting Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. The upgraded port will handle container traffic, breakbulk, general cargo, and roll-on/roll-off operations.
DP World also plans to explore additional investments in free zones, logistics hubs, and trade corridors, aligning with Syria’s efforts to rebuild and diversify its economy.
With operations in over 75 countries, DP World handles nearly 10% of global container traffic and brings extensive expertise to the Tartus project, further strengthening its presence in the Middle East.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
