DP World Jebel Ali Port Hits Record: 500,000 Vehicles Handled in 49 Weeks
In a remarkable feat that underscores both the strategic importance of the UAE and the capabilities of DP World’s flagship Jebel Ali Port, a new record has been set for vehicle handling. As of the 49th week of this year, the port had managed to process an astonishing 500,000 vehicles, a number that translates to almost one vehicle being imported, exported, or re-exported every minute, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This achievement surpasses the previous record set in 2008, when 479,000 vehicles were handled through the port over the entire year.
This record-breaking performance speaks volumes about the operational efficiencies and the role that Jebel Ali plays as the premier gateway to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. DP World’s senior leadership has expressed immense pride in this achievement, emphasizing its significance for both the company and the broader UAE economy.
Celebrating the Record
Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of DP World, UAE Region, hailed the achievement in a press release, stating:
“DP World is proud that our flagship Jebel Ali Port continues to play its full role as the premier gateway to the GCC region. The record number of vehicles that have passed through the port’s facility for roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) vehicle carriers reinforces the growth message for the UAE and the wider region that we are hearing from economic commentators such as the IMF.”
Al Muallem went on to congratulate the management and employees at the General Cargo Terminal, commending their efforts in achieving this milestone. “We congratulate the management and employees at the General Cargo Terminal on an excellent job done in handling 500,000 vehicles,” he said.
The achievement not only highlights the operational capability of DP World’s Ro-Ro terminal but also reflects broader trends in the UAE’s economic growth. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other economic commentators have pointed to the UAE as a rising economic power, bolstered by infrastructure investments and a strategic location that positions it as a key hub for global trade.
Jebel Ali’s General Cargo Facilities: A Hub for Diverse Cargo
Jebel Ali Port’s General Cargo Terminal is a critical component of DP World’s UAE operations. The terminal boasts 30 berths and a vast storage area of over 1.3 million square meters, which includes 1.2 million square meters of open storage space and an additional 100,000 square meters of covered space. This expansive infrastructure supports the port’s ability to handle large volumes of cargo, including vehicles.
Tariq Bin Khalifa, Director of General Cargo, DP World, UAE Region, emphasized Jebel Ali’s role as a global leader in cargo handling. He noted that the port’s success lies in its ability to offer specialized and efficient operations for handling a diverse array of cargo types, including roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) vehicles.
“Jebel Ali’s strength lies in the high degree of specialization and operational efficiencies we offer in handling diverse kinds of cargo. By handling over half a million vehicles in less than a full calendar year, our Ro-Ro terminal has once again proved its world-class capabilities and the importance DP World UAE Region continues to give to general cargo throughput alongside our container handling business,” Bin Khalifa said.
Ro-Ro terminals, which allow vehicles to be driven on and off ships, play a critical role in the global automotive supply chain. The vehicles passing through Jebel Ali are not only destined for the UAE market but are also imported for re-export to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The efficiency with which Jebel Ali handles this cargo reinforces its position as a strategic trading hub.
Expanding Capacity: Preparing for Future Growth
The new record of 500,000 vehicles handled in 49 weeks is particularly significant given that Jebel Ali Port is undergoing major expansion to meet the growing demands of global trade. DP World is in the process of expanding the port’s capacity with the construction of a brand new Container Terminal 3, as well as the expansion of Container Terminal 2. These developments are set to increase the total capacity of the port to 19 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) by 2014.
This expansion underscores DP World’s commitment to enhancing Jebel Ali’s status as one of the most important ports in the world. As containerized cargo and general cargo volumes continue to grow, the expanded facilities will allow the port to handle even greater volumes of trade, further cementing the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub.
In fact, DP World’s performance in container handling has been similarly impressive. In the first nine months of 2012, the UAE Region of DP World handled nearly 10 million TEU, representing a 4.6% increase over the same period in 2011. This growth mirrors broader economic trends in the UAE, where investment in infrastructure and strategic sectors has spurred economic growth and diversification.
The Role of Jebel Ali in UAE’s Economic Growth
The significance of Jebel Ali Port’s performance goes beyond the logistics industry. The port is a key driver of the UAE’s broader economic ambitions, particularly in terms of trade and infrastructure development. Jebel Ali serves as a vital link between East and West, enabling trade flows between Asia, Europe, and Africa. Its strategic location, combined with world-class facilities and operational efficiencies, makes it an essential part of global supply chains.
The success of Jebel Ali is also a reflection of the UAE’s long-term vision for economic diversification. While oil remains a significant part of the economy, the country has invested heavily in sectors such as logistics, trade, and technology to reduce its reliance on hydrocarbons. Jebel Ali, as a key component of this strategy, plays a pivotal role in enabling the UAE to attract international businesses and investment.
A Future Built on Excellence
The achievement of handling 500,000 vehicles in just 49 weeks is a testament to DP World’s operational excellence, strategic foresight, and the dedication of its workforce. As Jebel Ali continues to expand and increase its capacity, its importance as a global logistics hub will only grow.
For the UAE, the success of Jebel Ali Port represents more than just a business milestone. It is a symbol of the country’s progress and its determination to play a leading role in global trade. By setting new records and continuously improving its infrastructure, DP World and Jebel Ali Port are paving the way for even greater achievements in the years to come.
