Syria Signs $800M Port Infrastructure Deal with Dubai’s DP World to Boost Economic Recovery

Watan-On Sunday, Syria’s official news agency SANA reported that the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports signed an $800 million agreement with DP World, the Dubai-based logistics and port management giant. The deal aims to upgrade port infrastructure and enhance logistics services in Syria.

This agreement builds upon a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in May, part of the Syrian government’s strategic vision to revitalize transportation, attract foreign direct investment, and support the country’s post-war reconstruction and economic recovery.

According to the agency, Qutaiba Badawi, head of the Port Authority, stated:“This deal reflects a balanced investment model, combining the needs of economic recovery with effective partnership principles. It includes the development of a multipurpose berth at Tartous Port and cooperation on free industrial and trade zones.”

Badawi emphasized that DP World brings:

• Technical expertise

• Strategic vision

• Global experience

“During the negotiations, which lasted months, we ensured the agreement was transparent, fair, and strategically sound,” he added.

He also stressed that this is not merely a technical agreement but a milestone in Syria’s reintegration into regional and international economic frameworks.

DP World’s CEO, Sultan bin Sulayem, affirmed:“Syria’s economy holds great potential—Tartous Port, in particular, presents opportunities for boosting Syrian exports. It can become one of the world’s top ports for cargo handling and logistics.”

Wider Context & Recent Developments:

This is the first major agreement announced by Syria following the recent lifting of U.S. sanctions by President Donald Trump—a move that has triggered a wave of foreign interest in Syria’s reconstruction sectors.

Other recent deals include:

• A 30-year agreement with CMA CGM (France) in May to develop Latakia Port

• A $7 billion energy agreement with a coalition of four international firms

• A $1.5+ billion deal with Al-Maha International in June to build a media production city

 Strategic Importance:

Tartous Port, located on the Mediterranean coast, is Syria’s second-largest port after Latakia and holds key strategic value for trade, reconstruction materials, and energy transport. The investment could:

• Create jobs

• Rebuild trade corridors

• Attract further international partnerships

• Strengthen Syria’s access to regional and global markets