The Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) deal includes an $800 million investment over the concession period to modernise the port and establish it as a strategic trade hub linking Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
The agreement was signed in Damascus by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, and Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, in the presence of Syrian President His Excellency Ahmed Al-Sharaa.
Following over a decade of conflict and limited infrastructure investment, the Tartus redevelopment is a key step in Syria’s economic reintegration.
The project will introduce upgraded infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and digital systems to improve operations across both container and general cargo terminals.
READ: DP World debuts scanner to cut customs delays in Constanta
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and Group CEO of DP World, said: “We see strong potential in Tartus to serve as a vital trade gateway and look forward to strengthening regional connectivity and economic opportunity through this investment.
“We believe in the power of trade to help drive long-term stability and prosperity for Syria and the region.”
READ: DP World sets record with slag vessel at Egyptian port
Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, Chairman of Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, stated: “Partnering with DP World will allow us to modernise and strengthen the efficiency of our trade infrastructure as we continue to rebuild key trade lanes, support the national economy and provide more opportunities for the Syrian people.
“The agreement reflects our shared vision to transform Tartus into a strategic gateway linking Syria with regional and international markets and it will pave the way for sustainable growth for years to come.”
Tartus, located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, is the country’s second-largest port and a critical access point to regional and international shipping routes, including those through the Bosporus and Suez Canal.
The redevelopment will expand the port’s capacity to handle general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and RoRo traffic.
DP World also plans to explore further logistics projects in Syria, such as free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors, in coordination with local partners.
Recently, DP World‘s terminal at the Port of Callao reported record volumes, including a 19 per cent increase in container throughput and a sharp rise in agricultural exports.