DP World Revenue Rises 13% Despite Middle East Disruption

DP World reported a 13.1% increase in first-half revenue to $12.7bn, as growth throughout its international ports and logistics operations helped counter disruption to Middle East trade and weaker volumes at Jebel Ali.

The Dubai-headquartered ports and logistics company handled gross container throughput of 42.8m teu during the first six months of 2026. This represented a 5.7% decline compared with the same period a year earlier.

However, the figures were significantly stronger when Jebel Ali was excluded. Throughput across the remainder of DP World’s portfolio climbed 5.4% to 39.7m teu, rising 6.5% on a like-for-like basis. The company recorded growth across Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas.

Jebel Ali continued operating throughout the first half and did not suffer any physical damage. However, conflict in the region temporarily resulted in fewer vessels calling at the port.

DP World responded to the disruption by strengthening inland connections and utilizing its broader regional network to help keep cargo moving. The company’s diversified global operations supported revenue growth despite the reduction in activity at its flagship UAE hub.

Adjusted EBITDA, however, fell by 5.6% to $2.86bn, with the regional disruption putting pressure on earnings during the period.

DP World continued investing heavily in its international infrastructure during the first half of the year, committing $1.5bn across its global portfolio.

The company expects its total investment to reach approximately $3bn during 2026. The spending will support additional capacity and trade infrastructure across several markets, including the UAE, UK, India, Saudi Arabia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The investment program forms part of DP World’s efforts to strengthen its global trade and logistics network and expand capacity in strategically important locations.

Plans also include the development of two new terminals in Fujairah under a 50-year concession. The terminals will extend DP World’s Jebel Ali logistics ecosystem and provide greater flexibility for cargo owners that use the UAE as a gateway for regional trade.

By expanding its infrastructure beyond Jebel Ali, DP World aims to offer additional options for moving cargo through the country and strengthen the resilience of its UAE logistics network.

Despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and the disruption experienced during the first half of the year, DP World said its extensive international network and integrated logistics operations leave the business well positioned.