In a strategic move to transform regional trade logistics, DP World has officially inaugurated a groundbreaking 36-hour maritime connection linking Dubai’s Mina Rashid with Iraq’s Umm Qasr Port. The new service, operated by the recently upgraded ‘DP World Express’ RoRo vessel, promises to revolutionize cargo transportation between the Gulf nations.
The newly enhanced vessel, which recently completed upgrades at Drydocks World, boasts capacity for 145 accompanied trailers per sailing. This innovative approach allows drivers to travel aboard with their non-containerized trailer units, creating a secure door-to-door transportation solution that significantly outperforms traditional overland trucking routes.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the convergence of high-ranking officials from both nations, including Dr. Muzaffar Mustafa Al-Jubouri, Iraqi Ambassador to the UAE, and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO of DP World, signaling the diplomatic importance of this infrastructure development.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem emphasized the strategic significance: “This new maritime bridge establishes a faster, more efficient trade corridor between Iraq and the UAE that will facilitate commerce throughout the Middle East. By providing a predictable route that reduces time, cost, and complexity, we’re creating long-term economic opportunities for both nations.”
The service addresses growing market demand for accelerated, controlled trailer movements with reduced handling requirements. Beyond connecting main commercial centers in Iraq, the corridor enhances regional connectivity to Jordan and Syria through established inland routes. The return journey will carry Iraqi export cargo back to the UAE, creating a balanced two-way trade flow that optimizes regional supply chain efficiency.
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director of DP World GCC, highlighted the customer-driven nature of the initiative: “The transition to accompanied trailers responds directly to market needs for more reliable cross-border movement. Our direct maritime solution from Mina Rashid enables businesses to plan with greater confidence, respond agilely to market demands, and streamline regional goods movement.”