Source: Terminal – DP World
Date: 22nd July 2026 

New container and general cargo terminals will strengthen the UAE’s logistics network, increase capacity and enhance supply chain resilience across regional and global trade routes.

The United Arab Emirates is set to significantly expand its port and logistics capabilities following an agreement to develop two new terminals in Fujairah under a long-term concession.

Located on the UAE’s east coast along the Gulf of Oman, the development will include a new deep-water container and multi-purpose terminal at Al Rugaylat, as well as a general cargo terminal at Dibba. Once completed, the project will establish an additional maritime gateway capable of accommodating the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels while supporting growing volumes of general cargo and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) traffic.

The Al Rugaylat terminal is designed to handle up to 2.5 million TEUs annually, together with 1.7 million tonnes of general cargo and 190,000 car equivalent units (CEUs). The Dibba terminal will add a further 3.6 million tonnes of annual general cargo capacity.

The expansion will increase the UAE’s overall container handling capacity by almost 2.5 million TEUs, bringing total capacity to nearly 22 million TEUs upon completion.

A key feature of the project is its integration with the UAE’s existing logistics infrastructure. The new terminals will be connected through inland transport networks to the country’s established logistics ecosystem, creating greater flexibility for cargo movement between ports, distribution centres and inland markets. This integrated approach is expected to improve cargo flow efficiency while providing businesses with additional routing options across the region.

Beyond increasing capacity, the project also strengthens the UAE’s long-term strategy of diversifying its maritime gateways. With Fujairah providing direct access to the Gulf of Oman, the development enhances connectivity for international trade while reducing reliance on a single port gateway for cargo movements.

Construction will be delivered in phases, with the new terminals expected to become operational approximately 24 to 30 months after construction begins.

The expansion reinforces the UAE’s position as one of the Middle East’s leading logistics and transshipment hubs. Additional port capacity, combined with integrated inland logistics connectivity, will support growing trade volumes while improving network resilience for regional and international supply chains.

The development also strengthens cargo routing flexibility by providing an additional major gateway on the UAE’s east coast, allowing businesses greater options when planning import, export and transshipment activities.

As global trade continues to expand and supply chains seek greater resilience, investment in diversified port infrastructure is expected to remain a priority across major logistics hubs.

The Fujairah development is likely to enhance the UAE’s competitiveness as a regional gateway while supporting long-term growth in container, general cargo and automotive logistics. Its strategic location outside the Strait of Hormuz also provides additional operational flexibility for global shipping networks.

What This Means

• Increased port capacity will provide additional options for cargo moving through the UAE.
• Greater connectivity between ports and inland logistics networks is expected to improve supply chain efficiency.
• Businesses may benefit from increased routing flexibility and reduced congestion as cargo volumes continue to grow.
• Expanded general cargo and Ro-Ro facilities will support a broader range of industries and cargo types.
• The development further strengthens the UAE’s role as a regional distribution hub connecting Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe.

The expansion of Fujairah’s port infrastructure reflects a broader shift towards building more resilient and diversified supply chain networks. Rather than relying on a single gateway, leading logistics hubs are investing in integrated port ecosystems that provide greater flexibility, scalability and operational continuity.

For cargo owners, additional gateway capacity offers more routing choices, improved network resilience and stronger connectivity across regional and international markets. As global trade patterns continue to evolve, investments in multi-gateway logistics infrastructure will play an increasingly important role in supporting efficient and reliable supply chains.