DP World has launched a new maritime transport service between Dubai’s Port Rashid and Iraq’s Umm Qasr Port, via a direct transit route that takes only 36 hours, providing a faster alternative to land freight, with the capacity to accommodate up to 145 accompanying trailers on each trip.
The service was launched at Port Rashid with the official reception of the roll-on/roll-off vessel "DP World Express", which will operate the new line, after undergoing a comprehensive modernization program at Drydocks World during the past period, and is expected to begin its operational activities this December.
The launch ceremony was attended by His Excellency Dr. Muzaffar Mustafa Al-Jubouri, Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the UAE, Dr. Imad Ali Al-Azzawi, Acting Consul General of the Republic of Iraq, His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World Group, Dr. Abdullah Busand, Director General of Dubai Customs, Abdullah bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC, Brigadier Nabil Mohammed Al-Qarqawi, Deputy Assistant Director General for Sea and Land Ports Affairs, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai, and Shihab Al-Jasmi, Head of Commercial Affairs for Ports and Terminals at DP World GCC.
The ship will transport full trailers that are not packed in containers, with the drivers traveling on board, to provide a direct, integrated and safe solution for transporting goods to the customer’s door between the UAE and Iraq, and facilitates transit to neighboring countries, thereby enhancing the reliability of services and reducing the complexities associated with border crossings.
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World Group, said: “Our new service between Dubai and Iraq will contribute to creating a faster and more efficient sea bridge linking the two countries, enhancing the smooth flow of trade across the Middle East region. This route provides traders with a reliable and predictable option that reduces time, cost, and operational complexities, while simultaneously supporting opportunities for sustainable economic growth on both sides of the trade corridor.”
The launch of the new service reflects the growing demand from customers for faster and more controlled movement of escorted trailers, while reducing handling requirements and simplifying planning processes in key commercial sectors.
The new route also enhances access to key commercial hubs within Iraq and supports broader connectivity with Jordan and Syria via existing land routes, contributing to the revitalization of regional trade. On the return voyage, the DP World Express will transport goods destined for export from Iraq to the UAE, supporting bilateral trade and improving the efficiency of supply chains in the region.
Abdullah Bin Damithan, CEO and General Manager of DP World GCC, said that the shift towards escorted trailer transport is a clear response to market and customer needs for faster and more reliable cross-border solutions. By providing a direct marine solution from Port Rashid, we enable companies to plan with confidence, respond quickly to market demands, and streamline the movement of goods across the region.
The new service enhances DP World’s integrated logistics system, expands direct sea connectivity options for non-containerized goods, and contributes to sustainability by reducing carbon emissions compared to other transport and shipping options.
