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Essa Kazim, Chairman of the logistics company DP World from Dubai, met with Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of the Syrian General Authority for Borders and Customs (GABC), in Damascus to discuss the current status of the development plans for the Port of Tartus. The project highlights the role of the port as a strategic maritime gateway that supports Syria’s economic recovery and aims to boost trade activities.
During the meeting, opportunities to improve infrastructure and logistical efficiency were discussed to ensure that the Port of Tartus is well-equipped to handle the expected increase in trade and freight volumes. These efforts aim to position the port as an important regional hub connecting trade routes between Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
The development plans for the Port of Tartus are part of a 30-year concession agreement signed with the Syrian government in July 2025. Under this agreement, DP World has committed to investing USD 800 million in modernizing infrastructure, expanding capacity, and implementing modern cargo handling systems.
Focus on maritime development
DP World is leveraging its extensive capabilities to revitalize Syria’s maritime sector and broader economy. Through the accelerated development of the Port of Tartus, the company aims to enhance operational efficiency and capacity for handling various types of cargo, including general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and roll-on/roll-off traffic, thereby expanding Syria’s trade potential.
Essa Kazim stated, „DP World is committed to making a significant contribution to the development of Syria’s maritime sector by modernizing the Port of Tartus in line with the highest international operational standards. Our discussions focused on accelerating implementation to enhance the port’s role in promoting trade and strengthening Syria’s trade relations with regional markets.“
Kazim added, „The redesign of the Port of Tartus is seen as a strategic step towards restoring vital trade routes and stimulating economic activities. The modernization of port operations is expected to improve efficiency, facilitate trade flows, and support Syria’s reconstruction efforts.“
Strategic location of the port of Tartus
The Port of Tartus is the second-largest port in the country and an important maritime gateway for Syria to trade routes to Europe, the Levant region, and North Africa. Its strategic location enhances regional connectivity and complements existing routes through the Bosporus and the Suez Canal.
In addition to the port itself, DP World is exploring opportunities to develop logistics zones, inland freight centers, and transit corridors in collaboration with local stakeholders to integrate the Port of Tartus into regional and global supply chains.
With operations in over 80 countries and handling about 10% of global container traffic, DP World brings extensive experience in developing large-scale logistics infrastructures. The project in Tartus expands the company’s portfolio in the Middle East and reflects a focus on emerging trade routes as drivers for long-term growth.
Trade relations between the UAE and Syria are already strengthening. Non-oil trade reached a record USD 1.4 billion in 2025, representing a 132.4% increase compared to the previous year, reaffirming mutual trust and a shared commitment to fostering an integrated and prosperous economic partnership, according to DP World.
