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Dubai-based logistics giant DP World delivered a strong financial and operational performance in the first half of 2025, showcasing the strength of its integrated global trade platform despite ongoing geopolitical and economic headwinds. The company reported a 20.4% year-on-year revenue increase to $11,244 million, driven by solid growth in its Ports & Terminals division and contributions from recent acquisitions. Adjusted EBITDA climbed 21.4% to $3,033 million, while container volumes rose 5.6% on a like-for-like basis, reaching 45.4 million TEU across its global portfolio.
Financial and Operational Strength
The company’s financial results reflect its ability to navigate a complex global trade environment marked by geopolitical tensions, the prolonged closure of the Red Sea route, and uncertainties surrounding global trade tariffs. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted the company’s resilience, stating, “Our strategy of delivering integrated end-to-end solutions and operating critical infrastructure in key markets has allowed us to support cargo owners and deliver strong results despite significant industry disruptions.”
DP World’s Ports & Terminals division led the charge, with a 7.5% year-on-year increase in container throughput at terminals under its operational control, handling 27.4 million TEU. Regionally, the Europe, Middle East, and Africa segment saw the strongest growth, with a 10.2% like-for-like volume increase to 16.9 million TEU. The Asia Pacific and India region handled 21.7 million TEU, up 1.7% like-for-like, while the Americas and Australia region processed 6.8 million TEU, reflecting a 7.9% growth. The flagship Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, part of the Europe, Middle East, and Africa segment, recorded a 6.0% volume increase, handling 7.8 million TEU.
Profitability also saw significant gains, with EBIT rising 27.3% to $1,902 million and profit attributable to owners doubling to $532 million, a 100.5% increase from the first half of 2024. The company maintained a stable EBITDA margin of 27.0%, slightly up from 26.8% the previous year, reflecting operational efficiency and disciplined cost management.
Strategic Investments Fuel Growth
DP World invested $1.08 billion in capital expenditure during the first half of 2025, with a full-year target of $2.5 billion. These investments are aimed at expanding capacity and enhancing supply chain integration at key facilities, including Jebel Ali Port, Drydocks World, Tuna Tekra in India, London Gateway in the UK, and Dakar in Senegal. Additional funds are being allocated to bolster DP World Logistics and P&O Maritime Logistics, alongside advancements in digital capabilities to support long-term trade resilience.
Yuvraj Narayan, Group Deputy CEO and CFO, emphasized the company’s financial discipline, noting, “Our performance was underpinned by strong cash generation and a disciplined balance sheet, positioning us well to fund strategic growth while maintaining credit strength.” This financial stability has enabled DP World to pursue strategic acquisitions and expand its global footprint, particularly in high-growth markets.
Adapting to Supply Chain Disruptions
The company’s freight forwarding platform, bolstered by its Unifeeder subsidiary, now spans approximately 300 locations and covers more than 90% of global trade lanes. This extensive network has proven critical in helping customers maintain cargo flows amid disruptions to key shipping corridors. Recent acquisitions have further strengthened DP World’s offerings, introducing specialized capabilities to address supply chain inefficiencies and enhance connectivity across major trade routes.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem underscored the importance of these developments, stating, “Our enhanced logistics capabilities and strategic acquisitions allow us to deliver resilient, efficient, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of cargo owners.” These efforts have positioned DP World as a vital partner for global shipping lines and cargo owners seeking reliable and sustainable multimodal transport solutions.
Outlook for 2025
Despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges and pressure on global shipping routes, DP World remains optimistic about its full-year performance. The company expects to sustain its EBITDA growth, driven by continued throughput increases, operational efficiencies in Ports & Terminals, and strategic investments. The focus on digitalization and supply chain integration is expected to further enhance the company’s ability to deliver value in a volatile trade environment.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem concluded, “As supply chains evolve, DP World is well-positioned to lead the industry in delivering efficient, resilient, and sustainable trade solutions that create long-term value.” The company’s integrated platform and strategic investments continue to provide a strong foundation for navigating the complexities of global trade.
