DP World has announced the commencement of the next phase of construction for its new global headquarters in Expo City Dubai. This eight-story building is envisioned as an architectural landmark, reflecting the values of innovation, sustainability, and the future of smart global trade.
A special ceremony was held to mark the completion of the foundation work, attended by key figures such as Reem Al Hashimy, the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of the Expo City Dubai Authority, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, and other prominent officials. This event symbolizes a strategic partnership between two entities that share Dubai’s ambitious vision on the global stage.
The project is expected to be completed and inaugurated by 2027, positioning the new headquarters as a central hub for global connectivity and integration within Expo City Dubai. It sets new standards for sustainable workplace design in the region, featuring a 10.45-meter cantilevered extension, making it one of the boldest engineering feats in the area, giving the building a futuristic appearance that seems to float above its natural surroundings.
Covering an area of 301,940 square feet, the building will accommodate 850 employees and receive around 2,000 visitors each day. The ground floors are set to be open to the public, housing various cafes, restaurants, and meeting rooms designed to foster interaction and community dialogue. At the heart of the headquarters will be the ‘Flow’ pavilion and fountain, which were among the highlights of DP World’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, attracting over 1.2 million visitors and reflecting the company’s mission to facilitate global trade flow.
Additionally, the design includes the first fully automated parking facility of this size in the Middle East, capable of housing about 1,000 vehicles, including spaces for 100 electric cars.
Reem Al Hashimy commented, “Expo City serves as a platform for innovation, sustainability, and global connectivity—values that align perfectly with DP World’s vision for the future of trade. We are thrilled to host the new headquarters, which will symbolize Dubai’s leading role as a catalyst for progress and global cooperation.”
In turn, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem stated, “This milestone in our construction efforts at Expo City marks the beginning of a new chapter in our journey. The new headquarters will be a center where technological innovation meets sustainability and talent, shaping the future of global trade. Just as Dubai has continually reinvented itself, DP World is evolving from a port operator to a vital player in enabling smart, sustainable supply chains worldwide.”
Unique Global Center Leading the Future of Trade
Location and Size: Covers 18,013.63 square meters, with a built-up area of 16,220 square meters and a height of 38 meters.
Design and Structure: Features a cantilevered extension of 10.45 meters and an interior design that enhances natural lighting, equipped with advanced systems for controlling sunlight and temperature.
Parking Facilities: The first fully automated facility of its size in the region, accommodating around 1,000 vehicles, including 100 electric vehicles.
Sustainability: Aiming for Platinum LEED certification, along with certifications from Fitwel and Park Smart, which are the first of their kind in the region, including solar panels and a system for harvesting condensation water for landscape irrigation.
Smart Solutions: Comprehensive digital systems for energy management, visitor flow regulation, and smart working environments.
A Journey from Port to Expo City
• 1972: Opening of Rashid Port as Dubai’s first commercial port.
• 1976: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum issues a decree to establish Jebel Ali Port.
• 1978: Expansion of Rashid Port to include 35 berths, serving as a gateway for goods, vehicles, and passengers.
• 1979: Official inauguration of Jebel Ali Port by Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II.
• 1985: Establishment of Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) by royal decree under the authority of JAFZA.
• 1990: Creation of Rashid Port Authority by royal decree.
• 1991: Formation of Dubai Ports Authority to manage Rashid and Jebel Ali Ports from its office at Rashid Port.
• 1998: JAFZA expands its mid-rise office buildings, including JAFZA 14, 15, 16, and 17.
• 1999: Establishment of Dubai Ports International for managing overseas operations.
• 2005: Formation of DP World, headquartered in JAFZA.
• 2006: Acquisition of P&O, making it the third-largest port operator globally.
• 2015: Merger of JAFZA with DP World.
• 2021: Launch of the ‘Flow’ pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, attracting over 1.2 million visitors to see its iconic fountains.
• 2023: DP World appoints Dynamic Design Studio to design the new headquarters in Expo City Dubai.
• 2025: Foundation work completed, and construction of the first floor begins.
• 2027: Inauguration of the new global headquarters in Expo City Dubai.