DP World has agreed a 50-year concession with Fujairah Ports Authority to develop two new terminals on the UAE’s east coast, adding 2.5m TEU of container capacity and expanding the group’s general cargo and vehicle-handling footprint, according to Splash247.
Terminal details and capacity
The agreement covers the Al Rugaylat container and multipurpose terminal and the Dibba general cargo terminal. Al Rugaylat is designed to handle up to 2.5m TEU annually, alongside 1.7m tonnes of general cargo and 190,000 car equivalent units, Splash247 reported. Dibba will add a further 3.6m tonnes of annual general cargo capacity. The deepwater Al Rugaylat facility will be capable of handling the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels.
| Terminal | Container capacity (TEU) | General cargo capacity (tonnes) | Vehicle capacity (CEU) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Rugaylat | 2.5m | 1.7m | 190,000 |
| Dibba | – | 3.6m | – |
Impact on DP World's UAE network
Once operational, the two terminals will lift DP World’s total container-handling capacity in the UAE from 19.4m TEU to almost 22m TEU, Splash247 stated. DP World said Jebel Ali was operating at high utilisation and that the Fujairah developments would provide additional capacity to support long-term growth.
The facilities will be connected to Jebel Ali through DP World’s inland logistics network and integrated with the Jebel Ali Free Zone, allowing cargo to move between the east coast, Dubai and inland markets through a single operating network.
Strategic location outside the Strait of Hormuz
Fujairah’s position outside the Strait of Hormuz also gives the project strategic value by providing direct access to the Gulf of Oman and major east-west shipping routes without requiring vessels to enter the Gulf, Splash247 noted. This offers an alternative gateway for cargo destined for the UAE and the region, reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz for maritime traffic.
Construction timeline and phasing
Both terminals will be developed in phases, with construction expected to take between 24 and 30 months from commencement, according to Splash247.
Implications for shippers and operators
For freight forwarders, logistics managers and ocean carriers, the new terminals provide additional capacity on the UAE’s east coast, potentially reducing congestion at Jebel Ali. The integration with DP World's inland network and Jebel Ali Free Zone means that cargo can be moved seamlessly between the east coast and Dubai. The ability to handle ultra-large vessels at Al Rugaylat will offer carriers an alternative port of call without transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Shippers should monitor the phased construction schedule and prepare for potential changes in routing as the terminals come online.
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