The UAE is taking another major step to strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading maritime and logistics hubs after DP World announced plans to develop two new port terminals on the country’s eastern coastline. The investment is expected to enhance cargo capacity, improve supply chain resilience and provide an alternative gateway for international trade beyond the Strait of Hormuz.
The project reflects the country’s long-term strategy of diversifying transport infrastructure while reinforcing its role in global commerce. According to Reuters, the expansion will increase the flexibility of the UAE’s logistics network by allowing cargo to move more efficiently between international shipping routes and domestic transport corridors.
The announcement comes as the Gulf region continues to invest heavily in ports, logistics parks and multimodal transport systems to meet rising demand from global trade and manufacturing industries.
New terminals strengthen the UAE’s logistics network
DP World confirmed that the two new facilities will be developed on the UAE’s eastern coast, providing additional access to international shipping lanes outside the Arabian Gulf. The investment is designed to reduce dependence on traditional maritime routes while improving the country’s ability to maintain uninterrupted cargo flows during periods of regional uncertainty.
Once operational, the terminals will complement DP World’s existing infrastructure, including the globally recognised Jebel Ali Port, one of the busiest container ports outside Asia. The company expects the expansion to significantly increase its handling capacity across the UAE, creating a more balanced logistics network capable of supporting future trade growth.
The new facilities will also improve connectivity with inland industrial zones, free economic zones and national transport infrastructure, allowing imported and exported goods to move more efficiently throughout the country.
Strategic investment supports long-term trade growth
The project forms part of the UAE’s broader economic diversification strategy, which places logistics and international trade at the centre of future development. Authorities continue investing in ports, airports, railways and industrial clusters as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a gateway linking Europe, Asia and Africa.
Industry analysts note that expanding infrastructure on the eastern coastline provides important strategic advantages. Unlike ports located inside the Arabian Gulf, terminals facing the Gulf of Oman can offer direct access to international shipping routes without vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
This geographical advantage is expected to improve operational flexibility for shipping companies while strengthening supply chain resilience for businesses operating across the Middle East.
DP World has consistently expanded its international logistics portfolio in recent years, investing in ports, inland terminals, freight corridors and digital supply chain solutions across multiple continents. The latest UAE project reinforces the company’s commitment to supporting long-term economic development through modern infrastructure.
Ports remain a key driver of the UAE economy
Maritime trade continues to play a critical role in the UAE’s economic growth, supporting sectors ranging from manufacturing and construction to retail and energy. By expanding national port capacity, the government aims to accommodate increasing cargo volumes generated by rising regional trade and growing international investment.
The new terminals are also expected to complement other large-scale infrastructure initiatives, including the expansion of Etihad Rail, improvements to national highway networks and the continued development of industrial and logistics zones across the Emirates.
Together, these projects are creating an increasingly integrated transport ecosystem capable of moving goods more quickly between ports, airports, manufacturing centres and neighbouring markets.
Experts believe that stronger logistics infrastructure will enhance the UAE’s competitiveness at a time when global companies are seeking reliable regional hubs for manufacturing, distribution and international trade. Faster cargo movement, diversified shipping routes and expanded capacity are expected to make the country even more attractive for multinational businesses.
With construction expected to move forward in the coming years, the new eastern terminals represent another milestone in the UAE’s long-term vision of becoming one of the world’s most connected logistics and maritime economies. As international trade volumes continue to grow, investments of this scale are likely to reinforce the country’s status as a critical gateway for commerce between East and West.