DP World has expanded its automotive logistics operations at Jebel Ali Port with the opening of a 2.6 million square foot vehicle storage yard at Terminal 4, increasing the port’s capacity and reinforcing Dubai’s position as the Middle East’s leading automotive trade hub.
The new facility, which can accommodate an additional 13,000 car equivalent units (CEUs), raises the total storage capacity at Jebel Ali to 75,000 CEUs. An 800-metre quay has also been added, enabling the port to berth up to three roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels at the same time.
By shifting RoRo operations from Terminal 1 to the newly built zone at Terminal 4, DP World says it is improving berth availability, reducing vessel turnaround times, and freeing up valuable space at other parts of the port.
Scaling up for global trade
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC, said the development reflects Dubai’s ambition to grow its role in international automotive logistics.
“This expansion gives car manufacturers, dealers and logistics providers faster, more reliable access to key markets across the Middle East, Africa and beyond,” he said.
Shahab Al Jassmi, Senior Vice President – Commercial, Ports and Terminals at DP World GCC, described the investment as “customer-focused,” highlighting improvements in yard space, service speed and berth reliability to support the automotive supply chain.
Surge in vehicle volumes
The announcement comes against a backdrop of surging vehicle traffic at the port. In the first half of 2025, Jebel Ali handled 545,000 vehicles – an increase of 28% on the same period last year. Imports made up 65% of this figure, with most vehicles arriving from China, Japan, Thailand, India and South Korea.
Analysts say the growth reflects both rising demand in the Gulf and the strategic position of Dubai as a re-export hub serving markets across the Middle East and Africa.
Part of a wider strategy
The Terminal 4 expansion forms part of DP World’s broader automotive strategy, which also includes plans for a 20 million square foot advanced car market in Dubai. The planned facility is expected to be the largest of its kind globally, integrating sales, storage, and service facilities under one roof.
These projects align with Dubai’s D33 economic agenda, which aims to double the size of the city’s economy by 2033 and position it as a global leader in smart logistics and advanced trade infrastructure.
With the latest expansion, Jebel Ali Port strengthens its role not only as a key player in automotive logistics but also as a technology-driven hub capable of adapting to the changing needs of global supply chains.
