DP World has unveiled a significant enhancement to its automotive logistics capabilities at Jebel Ali Port, stepping up its role in global vehicle trade. The company has opened a vast new vehicle yard spanning 2.6 million square feet at Terminal 4, signaling Dubai’s growing ambitions as an international automotive hub.

Boosted Vehicle Storage Capacity

A centerpiece of the expansion is the addition of 13,000 car equivalent units (CEUs) to the port’s vehicle storage facilities. With this latest increase, Jebel Ali Port now boasts a total storage capacity of 75,000 CEUs—a near 21% jump that will enable support for greater trade volumes and operational flexibility.

Surging Automotive Trade Volumes

The upgrade comes at a time when demand for automotive logistics is rapidly increasing. In the first half of 2025, Jebel Ali Port reported a robust 28% year-on-year rise in roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) traffic, handling 545,000 vehicles across its facilities. This surge demonstrates the port’s growing stature as a regional and global conduit for vehicle imports and exports.

Strong Import Activity from Asia

Reflecting global sourcing trends, imported vehicles account for about 65% of Jebel Ali’s throughput. These vehicles predominantly originate from key manufacturing economies: China, Japan, Thailand, India, and South Korea. The expansion will help the port cater efficiently to the diverse needs of these international supply chains.

Enhanced Operational Efficiency

The RoRo operations have been strategically relocated to a new dedicated zone at Terminal 4, which features an 800-meter quay. This move is designed to streamline handling processes, reduce turnaround times for vessels, and provide faster and more reliable service to automotive sector clients.

Supporting Dubai’s Strategic Goals

The investment in automotive logistics dovetails with Dubai’s ambition to establish itself as a global hub for vehicle trade. The development is aligned with the D33 economic agenda, which targets doubling the emirate’s economy by 2033. DP World’s enhancements not only bolster local capacity but also strengthen Dubai’s competitive position in global trade networks.

Focused on Customer Growth

At the heart of the expansion is a commitment to customer-centricity. By offering expanded yard space and more rapid service, DP World aims to facilitate continued growth in the automotive supply chain and provide tailored solutions for importers, exporters, and distributors active in regional and global markets.

With this major expansion, DP World underscores its leadership in logistics innovation, reinforcing Jebel Ali Port’s position as the gateway of choice for automotive industry players looking to access the fast-evolving Middle Eastern market and beyond.