DP World has unveiled a major boost to its automotive logistics capabilities at Jebel Ali Port with the opening of a state-of-the-art, 2.6 million square foot vehicle storage facility at Terminal 4. The new yard provides an additional 13,000 CEUs (car equivalent units), taking the port’s overall capacity to 75,000 CEUs and strengthening Dubai’s position as the region’s leading automotive trade gateway.
The development features an 800-metre quay able to berth up to three roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ships at the same time. By relocating RoRo activity from Terminal 1 to this new, purpose-built area, DP World has increased berth availability, shortened vessel turnaround times, and created additional operational space to accommodate both current and future demand.
“Dubai is scaling up its role as a global automotive trade hub and this expansion gives car manufacturers, dealers, and logistics providers faster, more reliable access to key markets across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.”
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC.
“This is a customer focused investment. More yard space, quicker service and reliable berth availability are all designed to help the automotive supply chain grow.”
Shahab Al Jassmi, SVP – Commercial, Ports and Terminals, DP World GCC.
The announcement follows a strong rise in vehicle throughput. In the first six months of 2025, Jebel Ali handled 545,000 vehicles, an increase of 28% compared with the same period last year. Imports made up 65% of the total volume, with most shipments arriving from China, Japan, Thailand, India, and South Korea.
This latest investment forms part of DP World’s wider automotive sector growth plan, which also includes the creation of a 20 million square foot advanced car market in Dubai, set to become the largest in the world. Together, these initiatives contribute to the emirate’s D33 economic agenda, which aims to double Dubai’s economy by 2033 and solidify its status as a leader in smart, integrated logistics.
If you are interested in meeting the companies shaping the future of automotive logistics and port operations, contact us today about our MTB Ports & Terminals event.
