Procurement Powers Record Year for DP World's Jebel Ali Port
Jebel Ali Port, managed by DP World and one of the most technologically-advanced facilities of its kind, boasts an impressive annual container capacity of 19.4 million TEUs across four terminals.
The highly-functional port experienced a remarkable 2024, processing 15.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) – its highest container volume since 2015 and a substantial increase from the previous year. The figure represents nearly 18% of DP World's global container volume, which stood at 88.3 million TEUs for the year.
Additionally, the port saw a 23% year-on-year rise in breakbulk cargo volumes, reaching 5.4 million metric tonnes (MTs). This performance underscores the port's ongoing efficiency and its pivotal role in the logistics and trade landscape.
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director for the GCC at DP World, says: "This performance reflects the strength of our world-class ports and logistics infrastructure. The 15.5 million TEUs handled at Jebel Ali in 2024, along with the strong growth in breakbulk cargo, shows our capacity to meet increasing demand in both sectors."
Dynamic growth in cargo handling
The surge in container throughput at Jebel Ali Port can largely be put down to robust demand from Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. The introduction of new shipping services, alongside operational efficiencies, facilitated smooth cargo movements despite various challenges, like the crisis in the Red Sea.
These developments not only enhanced global connectivity but also reinforced the port's status as a critical player in international logistics.
In terms of breakbulk cargo, the port registered substantial growth driven by increased procurement of and investment in infrastructure projects, renewable energy and industrial activities. Notably, Jebel Ali handled sizable shipments of wind turbines, solar panels, heavy machinery and construction materials, with imports making up 80% of the total shipments. Outbound shipments were dominated by commodities like sugar, iron and steel.
This expanding demand for breakbulk cargo is expected to continue, supported by significant regional projects, including construction ventures in the UAE valued at approximately $112bn.
Crucial role in global projects
What's more, Jebel Ali Port has been instrumental in supporting several significant international projects.
In 2024, the port managed 45,000 MT of bagged wheat flour shipments destined for humanitarian relief efforts across the Middle East and Africa.
Additionally, it played a vital role in the US aluminium recycling market, handling the consolidation and export of structural steel. The port also managed logistical elements for Liberia's largest mining project, accounting for 60% of its structural components.
With its advanced infrastructure, including more than 100 berths and a quay spanning 25 kilometres in total, Jebel Ali is well-equipped to handle large-scale logistical operations. The nearby Mina Al Hamriya Port in Dubai enhances these capabilities by accommodating a diverse array of bulk and breakbulk shipments and supporting various vessel types.
Sustaining trade amid challenges
DP World's global network of ports and terminals exhibited robust performance in 2024, with a record throughput of 88.3 million TEUs marking an 8.3% increase over the previous year.
This achievement reflects the company's capacity to balance global economic pressures and maintain trade resilience amidst prevailing global uncertainties.
Abdulla encapsulates the strategic vision guiding these successes: "With a thriving ecosystem in Jebel Ali Free Zone and strong ties with major global economies, we are well-positioned to support the region's growing trade volumes.
"Despite global uncertainties, we remain committed to investing in advanced infrastructure to facilitate trade."
Explore the latest edition of Procurement Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE.
Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today.
Procurement Magazine is a BizClik brand.
