DP World announced that Jebel Ali Port's cargo throughput in 2024 will reach its highest level since 2015.

In 2024, the port handled 15.5 million TEU, 1 million TEU more than the previous year. This is the highest throughput since 2015 and cements Jebel Ali's position as a leading trade and logistics hub in the region, even amid ongoing supply chain disruptions. The figure represents nearly 18% of DP World's 88.3 million TEU of container throughput worldwide this year.

Bulk freight also saw significant growth, up 23% year-on-year to 5.4 million tonnes, which DP World said was the second highest performance in nearly a decade.

Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of World GCC, said: "This performance reflects the strength of our world-class port and logistics infrastructure. In 2024, Jebel Ali Port handled 15.5 million TEU and also saw strong growth in bulk and general cargo throughput, demonstrating our ability to meet the growing demands of both sectors. The Jebel Ali Free Zone has a thriving ecosystem with strong links to major global economies and we are well positioned to support the growing volume of trade in the region. Despite global uncertainties, we remain committed to investing in advanced infrastructure to facilitate trade."

The growth in container throughput is driven by strong local and regional demand, especially from Asia and the Indian subcontinent, new shipping services that facilitate global connectivity, and efficient operations that keep cargo flowing smoothly despite challenges such as the Red Sea crisis, according to DP World. The growth in bulk and general cargo throughput is driven by growing investments in infrastructure, renewable energy and industrial development in the region. Jebel Ali Port handles a large number of wind turbines, solar panels, heavy machinery and construction materials, with imports accounting for 80% of total shipments. The main export goods are sugar, iron and steel.

Large infrastructure projects in the region are driving demand for bulk groceries and this growth is set to continue, with the value of planned construction projects in the UAE alone set to reach approximately $112 billion in 2024.

Jebel Ali Port has four terminals, more than 100 berths and 25 km long terminals with an annual container throughput of 19.4 million TEU. It also has terminals dedicated to bulk, ro-ro and heavy cargo. Dubai's Mina Al Hamriya Port further complements these capabilities by handling bulk and bulk cargoes and accommodating vessels of all types.

Globally, DP World's port and terminal network handled a record 88.3 million TEU in 2024, up 8.3% year-on-year, demonstrating the company's resilience in the face of macroeconomic headwinds and concerns over the outlook for global trade.