Fujairah ports agreement with DP World to build Rughaylat and Dibba multi‑purpose container terminals
Fujairah ports agreement with DP World will establish Rughaylat and Dibba multi‑purpose container terminals, strengthening UAE trade infrastructure and regional logistics capacity.
Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, received Essa Kazim, Chairman of DP World, following the signing of a Fujairah ports agreement with DP World to develop two multi‑purpose container terminals at Rughaylat and Dibba. The meeting, held at Al Rumaila Palace and attended by Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, outlined the partnership’s role in expanding maritime infrastructure. Officials said the project is a strategic addition to the emirate’s economic development plans and to the UAE’s wider logistics ambitions.
Sheikh Hamad reviewed the main provisions of the agreement and the anticipated improvements to port infrastructure and services. He stressed that targeted strategic partnerships and major projects remain central to the UAE’s sustainable development agenda. The ruler highlighted the need for forward‑looking planning and innovation amid global challenges.
Ruler of Fujairah receives DP World chairman
Sheikh Hamad welcomed Essa Kazim and the accompanying DP World delegation in a formal audience at the palace. Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad was present for the discussions, underscoring the emirate’s senior leadership backing for the initiative. The meeting served to review the agreement’s objectives and to affirm shared commitments to delivery and standards.
Officials from the Amiri Diwan and Fujairah Ports Authority joined the session, reflecting cross‑sector coordination. The presence of senior local and corporate leaders signalled a unified approach to advancing the project. Attendees emphasised collaboration as essential to translating the agreement into tangible economic outcomes.
Agreement scope: Rughaylat and Dibba multi‑purpose container terminals
The Fujairah ports agreement with DP World covers the establishment of two multi‑purpose container terminals: Rughaylat Port and Dibba Fujairah Port. Both facilities are planned to serve containerized cargo and to support a range of maritime and logistics services aimed at enhancing regional connectivity. Authorities described the terminals as designed to international standards to accommodate evolving trade flows and technological requirements.
Project documents presented during the meeting highlighted opportunities to upgrade handling capacity, berthing infrastructure and hinterland links. The terminals are expected to integrate with existing port operations in Fujairah to improve throughput efficiency. Developers indicated scope for phased investment aligned with trade demand projections.
Economic and strategic significance for Fujairah and the UAE
Officials framed the Fujairah ports agreement with DP World as a strategic lever to bolster the emirate’s role as a regional trade and maritime services hub. The project is intended to diversify Fujairah’s economic base and to attract ancillary industries such as logistics, warehousing and supply‑chain services. Leadership tied the initiative to national priorities of competitiveness, resilience and sustainable growth.
Sheikh Hamad invoked federal leadership and the UAE’s broader development trajectory, noting that current global uncertainties call for flexible and innovative planning. The agreement was portrayed as consistent with the UAE’s objective to convert challenges into long‑term gains for future generations. Observers said enhanced port capacity in Fujairah could relieve pressure on regional chokepoints and offer shippers alternative routing options.
Implementation plan and timeline commitments
DP World’s chairman, Essa Kazim, expressed appreciation for the ruler’s support and described the agreement as the start of a new phase of strategic projects in Fujairah. He confirmed that relevant authorities will proceed to implement the project according to an approved timeline and under internationally recognised operational standards. Executives emphasised that the construction and commissioning plans will follow a structured schedule to ensure quality and performance.
Project delivery will involve coordination between DP World, the Fujairah Ports Authority and other stakeholders to secure permits, complete engineering studies and mobilise resources. Officials said phased execution would allow early optimisation of operations while subsequent capacity expansions are brought online. The partners committed to maintaining transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements as work advances.
Stakeholder endorsements and next steps
Sheikh Hamad praised DP World’s global reputation and track record in port and logistics development, noting the group’s achievements as a model for national success. He commended the collaborative efforts that led to the agreement and urged continued teamwork to consolidate the UAE and Fujairah’s standing on the global economic map. Local leaders signalled readiness to support implementation through institutional coordination and facilitation.
Present at the meeting were Mohammed Saeed Al Danhani, Director of the Amiri Diwan in Fujairah, and Captain Mousa Murad, Director of Fujairah Ports, who will play key roles in operational oversight. The parties indicated that detailed implementation schedules, regulatory clearances and project milestones will be announced as they are finalised. Preparatory technical studies and stakeholder consultations were described as immediate priorities.
The Fujairah ports agreement with DP World marks a deliberate step to strengthen maritime infrastructure and trade capacity in the emirate and across the UAE. By combining public leadership and private sector expertise, officials say the new Rughaylat and Dibba terminals will support growth, resilience and long‑term economic diversification.