DP World Advances Syria’s Economic Recovery Through Port of Tartous Modernization
Faizan Hashmi | Published August 17, 2026 | 11:30 PM (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM – 17th Aug, 2026) TARTOUS, Syria, 17th August, 2026 (WAM) – DP World has achieved a significant milestone in its US$800 million investment program to transform the Port of Tartous, completing the delivery of three Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHCs).
These cranes are poised to enhance Syria’s trade infrastructure and support the nation’s economic revival by increasing the port’s cargo-handling capacity by approximately 40%. This improvement will result in faster vessel turnaround times, enhanced operational efficiency, and better handling of containerized, bulk, and breakbulk cargo.
The crane deliveries mark a crucial step under DP World’s 30-year concession agreement to operate the Port of Tartous. Future plans include ongoing investments, such as dredging for larger vessels, quay wall refurbishment, deployment of additional cargo equipment, digital technology integration, and workforce development.
Fahad Al Banna, Chief Executive Officer, DP World Tartous, stated:
"This milestone is more than just the delivery of new equipment; it signifies our long-term commitment to aiding Syria’s economic recovery by rebuilding vital trade infrastructure. A modern port reduces business costs, attracts investment, and creates skilled jobs."
Mohammad Shihab, Executive Vice President, DP World, Egypt and the Levant, added:
"Strategically positioned on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, the Port of Tartous holds the potential to become a pivotal trade and logistics hub, connecting Syria with key regional markets like Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey. Our investment aims to boost efficiency, alleviate supply chain bottlenecks, and enhance connectivity, providing businesses with more reliable access to global markets while fostering industry growth across manufacturing, agriculture, and commerce."
The modernization program’s next phase will involve deploying additional cargo equipment later this year, followed by nine light-duty mobile harbour cranes in 2027 and early 2028. A new quay crane is scheduled for delivery in 2028, alongside planned harbour dredging and quay wall refurbishment.
