DP World has announced a strategic maritime route that links Jebel Ali Port in the UAE with Berbera Port in Somaliland. This new service will operate every nine days, enhancing DP World’s global network and establishing Berbera as a key maritime hub and primary logistics center in East Africa.
The Jebel Ali – Berbera route is designed to strengthen trade connections between the Gulf region and East Africa, offering a faster maritime pathway to Somaliland. Scheduled stops in Aden and Djibouti will facilitate additional links to major port cities and broaden access to markets in the Horn of Africa. From Berbera, shipments can seamlessly connect to inland destinations such as Ethiopia, providing an alternative to traditional supply chains that rely on Djibouti Port and extensive overland transport. This new route is expected to improve transit times and reduce the impact of regional trade bottlenecks.
Berbera Port boasts upgraded infrastructure, including a 1,050-meter berth capable of accommodating mega container ships of the Triple E class, extensive facilities for handling bulk and general cargo, and an annual capacity for around 4 million livestock. Moreover, it features the latest container terminal in the region and the Berbera Special Economic Zone, which is designed to attract foreign investment and foster long-term industrial growth.
Ganesh Raj, Global CEO of Operations – Marine Services at DP World, stated, “The Jebel Ali – Berbera route represents a continuation of our investment strategy in Africa. Leveraging the advanced infrastructure we have developed across the continent, this route enhances our clients’ trade connectivity as we work to strengthen commercial ties between the Middle East and East Africa. In doing so, we support the establishment of flexible and sustainable trade corridors that contribute to the prosperity of our partners, clients, and the communities we serve.”
DP World’s commitment in the Horn of Africa extends beyond Berbera Port, as the company holds a 58.5% stake in the container and general cargo terminal, ensuring access to key maritime corridors (East-West). They are also developing the nearby economic zone to accelerate local manufacturing. Currently, over 4.1 million livestock are shipped annually through Berbera Port to global markets, generating more than $1 billion in revenue. Community initiatives, such as training the first “Solar Mamas” in the region to work as technicians in solar power generation, highlight the dual role of commercial infrastructure in driving both economic and social impact.
Subashai Watanaveerachai, CEO – DP World Horn of Africa, remarked, “Our operations at Berbera Port are already stimulating trade and industry while supporting broader community development. The launch of this new corridor marks a significant milestone in our ambitious journey towards creating faster, safer, and more reliable trade routes, reflecting our commitment to delivering tangible economic benefits for businesses and communities in the region. Looking to the future, this route will help position Berbera as a gateway for growth and prosperity in East Africa.”
DP World’s strong presence in East Africa is reshaping regional trade flows by providing alternatives to traditional routes through Djibouti and improving access for landlocked and underserved areas to markets. This strategy aligns with regional goals to diversify the economy, enhance infrastructure resilience, and promote trade independence.
The growing importance of Berbera Port is also evident in private investments in overland trade connectivity projects, particularly the corridor to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. Supported by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, recent improvements include the construction of a 250-kilometer road and a 22.5-kilometer bypass road around Hargeisa, which enhance transit capacity and extend the port’s reach to regional markets.
DP World’s commitment to African infrastructure spans the entire continent, having invested nearly $3 billion so far, with a pledge to inject another $3 billion into ports and logistics infrastructure over the next three to five years. Investments include logistics platforms in Kigali, Rwanda, and the Maputo Corridor in Mozambique, all aimed at building effective, future-ready trade networks and solidifying the Horn of Africa’s role in global trade.
Since DP World commenced operations at Berbera in 2017, the port has undergone remarkable transformation, with a 450% increase in ship handling volume, a 30% rise in container handling, and a 90% growth in general cargo throughput. The port now receives over 14 container ships monthly, with an annual capacity of 500,000 twenty-foot equivalent units, and plans to expand this capacity to two million.
DP World continues to invest in its global network through new routes, advanced ship technologies, and sustainable operations. The launch of the Jebel Ali – Berbera route signifies an important step in the company’s journey towards delivering seamless and flexible maritime logistics solutions worldwide.