DP World launches new Jebel Ali – Berbera Shipping route

DP World has launched a new shipping route linking Jebel Ali Port in the UAE with Berbera Port in Somalia, operating every nine days. The service strengthens trade between the Gulf and East Africa, positioning Berbera as a key logistics hub for the region.

With scheduled stops at Aden and Djibouti, the route offers faster, more reliable access to Somalia and the Horn of Africa, including inland destinations such as Ethiopia. It provides an alternative to Djibouti-based logistics and reduces exposure to regional bottlenecks.

Berbera Port now features a 1,050-metre quay, including a 400-metre berth for Triple E vessels, as well as expanded bulk and breakbulk handling facilities. Its modern container terminal and the nearby Berbera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ) are central to attracting investment and driving industrial growth.

“The Jebel Ali–Berbera service complements DP World’s investments across Africa,” said Ganesh Raj, Group COO, Marine Services at DP World. “It enhances connectivity between the Middle East and East Africa while supporting resilient, sustainable trade corridors that unlock prosperity for our partners and communities.”

DP World holds a 58.5% stake in Berbera’s terminal, which offers deep-water access to major shipping lanes. The company also developed the Berbera Economic Zone and supports local initiatives such as training the region’s first “Solar Mamas” in solar energy technology. More than 4 million livestock worth over $1 billion are exported annually through Berbera.

“This new corridor marks a milestone in building faster and more reliable trade routes,” said Supachai Wattanaveerachai, CEO, DP World Horn of Africa. “It strengthens Berbera’s role as a gateway for East Africa’s growth.”

DP World’s investments are reshaping regional trade by offering alternatives to traditional routes through Djibouti. Backed by major infrastructure upgrades, including a 250 km road and the Hargeisa Bypass linking Berbera to Addis Ababa, the port’s reach continues to expand.

Across Africa, DP World has invested nearly $3 billion in ports and logistics infrastructure, with another $3 billion planned over the next five years. Since taking over Berbera in 2017, vessel productivity has risen 450%, container volumes 30%, and general cargo throughput 90%. The port now handles over 14 container vessels monthly, with plans to expand capacity to 2 million TEUs.

The Jebel Ali–Berbera service marks another step in DP World’s mission to deliver seamless, sustainable, and resilient maritime logistics solutions worldwide.