Dp World?s flagship port, the Jebel Ali Port and Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) experienced sustained growth across the 2010-2019 period
Jebel Ali Port, DP World?s flagship port handled more than 5mn tonnes of metal, steel and construction materials in 2019. At an average, the port has handled around 4.5mn TEU from 2010 to 2019, which equates to 1bn tonnes until 2019. More than 50mn tonnes of general cargo has been handled from 2010 to 2019.
Additionally, Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), has witnessed significant growth in the steel, metal and construction segment in 2019, generating AED13.9bn.
An integrated multimodal hub
The Jebel Ali Port and Jazfa?s combined capacity and capabilities create DP World, UAE Region?s multimodal trade and logistics hub connecting traders and owners to over 3.5bn consumers. The recent growth and handling capacity underscores the Jebel Ali hub?s strength and competence to enable trade and support the metal, steel and construction segment.
Top traded commodities for imports comprised iron and steel, wood, salt sulphur, earth stone, glass and aluminium, while export commodities included iron and steel, aluminum, copper and lead, and salt sulphur, earth stone.
China, India, Ukraine, Russia and Germany are key trade partners for import, whereas trade partners for exports include India, the USA, the UK, Pakistan and Iraq. The Port and Jazfa has retained its leading status owing to competitive ocean freight rates, operational flexibility, unparalleled connectivity to the region, landside conversion and other salient facilities like land for storage, logistics and warehouses.
Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO & managing director at DP World, UAE Region and CEO of Jazfa said, ?According to a report by GlobalData, the construction sector in the UAE recorded a growth of 3.3% in 2019. Pre-Covid, this figure was expected to increase to 4.3% in 2020. However, with the onset of the virus and the subsequent drop in oil prices, the dynamics of the market has changed, leading to a drop in business. Despite the challenging conditions, looking at the gradual market recovery and the resumption of trade and business activities, we are expecting an increase in demand for our facilities from steel and construction material companies. We are confident that this sector will grow both locally and regionally as we move into 2021.?
Al Muallem added, ?We are well aware that the times are tough for our clients, hence, we are offering easier rental terms, including monthly rentals and deferred rental payments. These robust incentives will help support business continuity. Additionally, a range of government stimulus packages will also promote the steady growth of the sector.?
Availability of advanced infrastructure
The Al Wasl dome, the largest 360-degree projection surface in the world, which will be on display for visitors to the Expo 2020 Dubai, was safely discharged and transported to its destination, thanks in part to the efforts of the administration at Jebel Ali Port. DP World, UAE Region, is responsible for ensuring all Expo-related cargo brought into Dubai is handled safely and in a timely manner. The port?s advanced capabilities allow it to handle all types of breakbulk, bulk and project cargo, whether it is from the Expo?s dome to luxury yachts.
