Dubai, UAE – August 8, 2025 – DP World has expanded its vehicle handling capacity at Jebel Ali Port following a significant surge in automotive trade volumes in the first half of 2025. The move highlights Dubai’s growing role as a regional hub for car logistics and supply chain operations.
A new 2.6 million square foot vehicle storage yard at Terminal 4 has been added, increasing the port’s overall capacity by 13,000 car equivalent units (CEUs). The total now stands at 75,000 CEUs, reflecting a 21% rise in vehicle storage capability.
The expansion was prompted by a sharp 28% year-on-year increase in roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo volumes. Between January and June 2025, Jebel Ali handled 545,000 vehicles, with 65% of them being imports. Most inbound vehicles came from leading automotive exporters including China, Japan, Thailand, India, and South Korea.
Terminal 4 to Streamline RoRo Operations
To support the growth, DP World has relocated its RoRo operations from Terminal 1 to a newly developed area at Terminal 4. The upgraded facility features an 800-metre quay, capable of simultaneously handling three RoRo vessels, aimed at reducing berth congestion and improving turnaround times.
According to DP World officials, this adjustment is expected to enhance operational efficiency across the port. “Dubai is scaling up its role as a global automotive trade hub,” said Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC. “This expansion gives manufacturers and logistics providers faster, more reliable access to key markets.”
Shahab Al Jassmi, SVP – Commercial at DP World GCC, emphasized that the investment is designed to meet customer needs by offering greater yard space and more consistent berth access.
Supporting Dubai’s Broader Economic Agenda
The Jebel Ali expansion aligns with DP World’s long-term strategy to position Dubai as a central player in the global car trade. This includes future plans for a 20 million square foot advanced car market—the largest of its kind—set to strengthen the emirate’s automotive ecosystem.
These initiatives support the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the city’s economic output by 2033 and elevate its standing as a smart global logistics hub.
With trade volumes continuing to rise, DP World’s infrastructure upgrades at Jebel Ali are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of automotive logistics in the region.