DP World has signed a landmark 30-year concession agreement with the Syrian General Authority for Land and Maritime Ports to develop and operate the strategic Port of Tartus. Under the agreement, DP World will invest $800 million over the concession period to comprehensively modernize the port’s infrastructure and solidify its position as a vital regional trade hub linking Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
The signing ceremony took place in Damascus in the presence of H.E. President Ahmed al-Shara. The agreement was signed by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, and Kutaiba Ahmad Badawi, Head of the Syrian Ports Authority. The project follows the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and includes a comprehensive upgrade package, such as the provision of modern cargo handling equipment and the integration of advanced digital systems to enhance operational efficiency.
Sultan bin Sulayem emphasized that the port has strong potential to be a vital trade gateway contributing to resilient supply chains, while Kutaiba Badawi noted that this partnership is a pivotal step in reintegrating the Syrian economy into global trade routes. The port’s strategic location complements existing trade routes via the Suez Canal and the Bosphorus. DP World will also explore opportunities to develop free zones, logistics centers, and strategic transit corridors to support economic diversification.-----------UPDATE 2025.11.12----------------
DP World has commenced operations at the port of Tartus following the official handover from the Syrian General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, announcing the entry into service of the new port tug, named "Al-Fath".
This move is a key milestone within DP World's 30-year concession agreement at the port of Tartus, which includes a planned investment of up to AED 3 billion (US$800 million), making it one of the largest foreign investments in Syria's logistics sector in recent years.
Fahad Al-Banna, CEO of DP World Tartous, said: “We have embarked on a journey to transform the Port of Tartous into a world-class maritime gateway. Through close cooperation with the Syrian government and the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, we are committed to applying DP World’s global expertise to build a modern, digitally advanced port that will boost trade, create opportunities, and solidify Tartous’s position as a key commercial hub in the Eastern Mediterranean region.”