Jebel Ali Port breaks 18-year record with 630,000-tonne breakbulk surge
Imports and exports surge amid major UAE infrastructure projects
DUBAI – DP World’s flagship Jebel Ali Port recorded a milestone in October 2025 by handling 630,000 tonnes of breakbulk cargo, the highest monthly total in nearly two decades.
The achievement comes amid a surge in industrial and construction activity across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), driven by major national development projects and rising trade flows.
The port has maintained its position as a pivotal gateway for cargo in the Middle East, supporting both domestic demand and global supply chain resilience.
Industrial momentum
Breakbulk cargo, comprising heavy materials and oversized equipment used in large-scale construction and manufacturing, saw substantial growth due to rising imports of iron and steel. These materials are being utilised in prominent national projects such as the Dubai Metro Blue Line and the expansion of Dubai World Central Airport. Sugar exports have also contributed to the upward trend, further affirming the UAE’s expanding role in regional and international trade.
In 2024, breakbulk volumes at Jebel Ali increased 23% year-on-year to 5.36 million metric tonnes, setting the foundation for this latest record. The performance reflects the port’s capacity to adapt to shifting cargo demands while maintaining operational efficiency.
Growing capabilities
Shahab Al Jassmi, Chief Commercial Officer, Ports & Terminals at DP World GCC, highlighted that the milestone demonstrates business confidence in Jebel Ali as a reliable logistics hub. He noted the port’s continued investments in capacity, technology and sustainability to support long-term growth.
Supported by Jafza’s integrated ecosystem, Jebel Ali ensures seamless handling of complex breakbulk cargo across regional and global supply chains. Its transformation into one of the world’s most advanced multipurpose ports reinforces its contribution to Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE’s Operation 300Bn strategy, which prioritise manufacturing, infrastructure and trade development.