DP World launches US$800M Port of Tartous modernization to rebuild Syria trade hub
“As infrastructure and trade conditions continue to improve, Tartous is well positioned to become a key node within these emerging logistics networks,” the company said.
SYRIA – DP World has launched a massive US$800 million initiative to transform the Port of Tartous into a premier regional logistics gateway, as it seeks to leverage Syria’s strategic Mediterranean location to facilitate trade among neighbouring nations and connect them to global markets following the lifting of international sanctions.
“As Syria’s second-largest port, Tartous is strategically positioned to become a key logistics gateway serving domestic markets and neighbouring countries, including Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey,” DP World said in an exclusive statement.
“Its location provides strong potential to facilitate regional trade flows and strengthen supply chain connectivity across the Levant.”
The strategy would extend Tartous beyond its role in serving the Syrian market, using its position on the Mediterranean to carry goods between neighbouring countries and along wider trade routes spanning the Gulf, Europe and North Africa.
Infrastructure Investment and Capacity Expansion
The first of three new mobile harbour cranes arrived on 29 June, marking the first major equipment investment under the concession. Each crane can handle approximately two million tonnes of cargo annually.
Once all three are operational, DP World expects them to increase the port’s overall cargo-handling capacity by around 40%, enabling Tartous to accommodate larger vessels and process higher volumes of containers, bulk cargo and breakbulk shipments.
The wider programme includes modern cargo-handling equipment, the rehabilitation of port infrastructure, and operational changes to increase capacity and productivity.
DP World said the transformation would be delivered in phases over the concession period, with equipment deployment and infrastructure work already underway.
Road Upgrades and Regional Connectivity
DP World said the Syrian government was investing in transport infrastructure, including upgrades to the M4 and M5 highways, to strengthen inland connectivity and support logistics development.
Additionally, the company said Syria’s evolving regulatory environment, including the gradual easing of international sanctions, remained an important consideration for logistics investors.
Economic Impact
“As infrastructure and trade conditions continue to improve, Tartous is well positioned to become a key node within these emerging logistics networks,” the company said.
DP World has also said it will provide training and skills development for local employees as new equipment and operating systems are introduced.
In the end, these developments, alongside French investment in the nearby Port of Latakia, signal a major effort to rebuild Syria’s trade infrastructure for the post-war era.
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