DP World has launched a new strategic shipping route connecting Jebel Ali Port in the UAE with Berbera Port in Somaliland, a move that significantly strengthens connectivity across the Horn of Africa. The new service operates every nine days, reinforcing Berbera’s position as a key maritime gateway and logistics hub in East Africa.
The Jebel Ali–Berbera service is designed to strengthen trade links between the Gulf and East Africa, offering a faster maritime route into Somaliland and providing an essential alternative to traditional logistics chains that often rely on Djibouti Port. With scheduled stops at Aden and Djibouti, the route offers better access to markets across the Horn of Africa, with cargo from Berbera able to connect onwards to inland destinations like Ethiopia.
This service will support more predictable transit times and reduce exposure to regional bottlenecks. Berbera Port’s enhanced infrastructure includes a 1,050-metre quay, a 400-meter section capable of handling Triple E vessels, and the Berbera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ), which is designed to attract foreign investment.
Ganesh Raj, Group Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services at DP World, noted that the service "further complements DP World’s investment drive into Africa," enhancing connectivity and boosting trade links between the Middle East and East Africa to unlock prosperity. Since DP World began operations in Berbera in 2017, the port has seen vessel productivity increase by 450%, with container volumes rising by 30%.
The port now handles over 14 container vessels per month, with plans to quadruple its annual capacity to 2 million TEUs. The company's commitment to African infrastructure is substantial, with close to $3 billion invested to date and another $3 billion committed for investment in ports and logistics infrastructure across the continent over the next three to five years. Supachai Wattanaveerachai, CEO, DP World Horn of Africa, added that the launch "is a milestone in our ambition to build faster, safer, and more reliable trade routes," supporting Berbera’s role as a gateway for East Africa’s future growth.
