DP World has announced plans to relocate its global head office to Expo City Dubai, marking the latest milestone in the company's 50-year journey, as it continues to expand its global supply chain solutions. 

The move to Expo City is part of the company’s journey from a local port operator in 1972 to a truly global supply chain solutions provider, transforming how the world trades. DP World has been based in Jebel Ali, at the heart of its port and free zone operations since it was established under its current name in September 2005. 

Announcing the plan, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: "DP World's relocation to Expo City Dubai is a not an isolated project; it is one of many within our overall transformation to become the leading global provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions. Moving to Expo City puts us at the heart of Dubai’s future, while also signifies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and making trade flow for our global customers. 

“We are confident that our new state-of-the-art home will not only facilitate our continued growth, but also serve as a testament to our dedication to excellence and environmental stewardship. Across our business, we are committed to providing sustainable solutions for customers and partners and this same innovative mindset drives the vision for our new head office." 

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Co-operation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, said: “As a hub on the 2040 Dubai Urban Masterplan, Expo City Dubai is committed to providing an ecosystem for sustainable growth across Dubai’s key sectors, as well as driving meaningful action around some of the greatest challenges of our time. Carrying forward the legacy of Expo 2020, we are delighted to welcome DP World back to our site once again, as together we work towards our shared vision of a better, more sustainable future for all.” 

DP World’s new Head Office, which is nine storeys and boasts 37,300 square metres of space -- will accommodate approximately 800 dedicated staff and provides a platform for clients and partners to engage directly with DP World's portfolio – across ports and terminals, marine services, logistics and technology. The first two floors are dedicated to engaging external stakeholders and visitors – with space for casual meetings and dining to the highest-level VIP meeting rooms and facilities. 

Juan Carlos Sahdala, DP World’s Group Chief Planning and Project Officer, said: “The process of designing DP World’s new head office at Expo City Dubai has been an invigorating journey. Our goal has been to craft a space that harmoniously blends form, function, and sustainability, encapsulating the forward-thinking essence of Dubai's evolution.” 

DP World is dedicated to minimising its environmental impact, and the head office will incorporate energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy sources, and eco-friendly building materials. The project will include a sustainable approach to the construction of the building itself, setting a new benchmark for the region. The project includes the use of electric golf carts, which will serve as a means of transportation, allowing convenient travel between different areas of the project site. Both employees and visitors can utilise these carts, ensuring ease of movement within the premises. 

Dr. Amr El Sabban, Group Senior Vice President, Planning and Project Management at DP World, added: “One of the key features of the building is its status as state-of-the art smart building. This means that cutting-edge technological solutions are integrated throughout the facility to enhance efficiency, productivity, and connectivity among employees from different departments and locations within the group. 

The smart building concept encompasses a wide range of advanced systems and solutions. Some of the key components include: energy efficient solutions, building management systems, intelligent elevator systems, and smart audio-video monitoring.” 

The design is integrated with DP World’s iconic Flow Pavilion and water fountain, which captivated audiences during Expo 2020. The pavilion welcomed nearly 3,000 government officials, 2,500 thought leaders, 10,000 students and over 1.2 million visitors over the course of the six-month Expo 2020 Dubai. 

Dubai-based DEC Dynamic Design Studio, was entrusted with the creation of a facility that reflects DP World’s vision for the future of global trade, combining functionality, sustainability and aesthetics. 

The building also includes an automated parking area, showcasing DP World's commitment to technological advancement in every aspect of its work. This innovative parking solution doesn’t only maximise plot use, but also aligns with DP World's environmental goals, reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional parking facilities. The project also provides surface car parking facilities near the entrances specifically designated for EV charging, this arrangement promotes convenience and encourages the use of sustainable and efficient modes of transportation. 

DP World looks forward to welcoming the world to its new global head office in Expo City Dubai, where trade, technology, and tradition converge to shape a brighter future for global commerce. 

DP World’s journey 
1972 DP World’s story begins as the port operator of the new Port Rashid in Dubai, the emirate’s first commercial port 
1979 Inauguration of Jebel Ali, the launchpad for DP World 
1999 First international project completed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia 
1999 DP World launches in India with a public-private partnership at the Nhava Sheva terminal 
2003 DP World enters Europe with a concession at the Port of Constanta in Romania 
2005 Acquisition of CSX Terminals, expanding its reach into Asia, Europe and South America 
2006 Acquisition of P&O, the world’s fourth largest port operator 
2013 Opening of London Gateway in the UK, a new high-tech trading hub for Europe 
2017 DP World takes 100% ownership of Embraport in Brazil 
2022 Acquisition of Imperial Logistics and syncreon and the launch of DUBUY.com, expanding services across land and online 
2023 DP World announces move from Jebel Ali to Expo City Dubai