A new shipping route connecting Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port with Berbera Port in Somaliland promises to reinforce Berbera’s position as a key maritime gateway and logistics hub in East Africa and enhance DP World’s global network.
The new service, operating every nine days, strengthens trade links between the Gulf and East Africa, offering a faster maritime route into Somaliland. With stops at Aden and Djibouti, it provides additional connectivity to key port cities, supporting greater access to markets across the Horn of Africa.
DP World expands African trade network
From Berbera, cargo can connect onwards to inland destinations such as Ethiopia, providing an alternative to traditional logistics chains that rely on Djibouti Port and long-haul overland trucking. The new route also supports more predictable transit times and reduces exposure to regional bottlenecks.
The Berbera port’s 1,050-metre quay’s enhanced infrastructure includes a 400-metre quay capable of handling Triple E vessels, extensive bulk and breakbulk handling facilities, and an annual livestock handling capacity of around four million heads. Berbera is also home to the region’s most modern container terminal and the Berbera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ).
Ganesh Raj, Group Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services at DP World, commented: “The Jebel Ali to Berbera service further complements DP World’s investment drive into Africa.
“Building on the significant infrastructure we have developed across the continent, the service enhances connectivity for our customers as we continue to boost trade links between the Middle East and East Africa.
“We are supporting the growth of resilient, sustainable corridors that unlock prosperity for our partners, customers and the communities we serve.”
In the Horn of Africa, DP World holds a 58.5 per cent stake in the container and general cargo terminal, providing deep-water access to major East-West shipping lanes, and has developed the nearby Berbera Economic Zone to accelerate local industrialisation. Already, the movement of more than 4.1 million heads of livestock to global markets, is a trade worth over US$1 billion.
Supachai Wattanaveerachai, CEO, DP World Horn of Africa, added: “The launch of this new corridor is a milestone in our ambition to build faster, safer, and more reliable trade routes. It reflects our commitment to creating meaningful economic benefits for businesses and communities in the region.
“Our work in Berbera is already stimulating trade and industry, while supporting wider community development. Looking ahead, this service will strengthen Berbera’s role as a gateway for East Africa’s future growth and prosperity.”
Berbera’s importance is reinforced by investments in inland connectivity, most notably the corridor linking to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. Backed by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and the UK’s Department for International Development, recent upgrades such as a 250-km road and the 22.5-km Hargeisa Bypass are improving transit capacity and expanding the port’s reach.
Berbera port has undergone a significant transformation ever since DP World began operations in 2017. Vessel productivity has increased by 450 per cent, with container volumes rising by 30 per cent and general cargo throughput growing by 90 per cent. Today, Berbera handles over 14 container vessels per month and has an annual container capacity of 500,000 TEUs.
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