DP World Acquires ‘DP World Chennai’ to Strengthen India–Middle East Shipping Corridor

By Admin

27 Feb, 2026

Strategic Vessel Acquisition Boosts Regional Connectivity

Global logistics leader DP World has strengthened its maritime presence by acquiring the 5,000+ TEU container vessel ‘DP World Chennai’ through its Marine Services arm, Shipping Solutions. The vessel has been deployed on the Red Sea–Gulf–India service, reinforcing trade connectivity between India and the Middle East.

The newly acquired vessel marked its maiden call at Jebel Ali Port, one of the world’s busiest and most strategic ports. With this addition, Shipping Solutions’ total owned capacity now exceeds 6 million TEU, significantly enhancing its operational strength across key trade lanes.

Enhancing Schedule Reliability and Service Consistency

The deployment of DP World Chennai is expected to improve schedule reliability and service consistency across regional markets. In today’s fast-evolving supply chain ecosystem, predictability and on-time delivery are crucial for businesses managing complex logistics networks.

Ganesh Raj, Global COO, Marine Services, DP World, stated that the acquisition strengthens the company’s ability to deliver dependable and scheduled connections across the India–Middle East corridor. He emphasized that the move goes beyond mere capacity expansion  it is about improving flexibility and ensuring predictable cargo movement for customers navigating modern supply chains.

Building a Resilient and Integrated Network

This development aligns with DP World’s broader strategy to build a resilient and diversified global network. The company continues to focus on a balanced mix of owned assets, strategic investments, and deeper integration between its port and marine operations.

As regional trade volumes grow steadily, DP World aims to enhance planning predictability and adapt to evolving logistics requirements. The addition of DP World Chennai supports this objective by strengthening connectivity across high-demand routes linking India, the Gulf, and the Red Sea.

Global Recognition and Growing Carrier Strength

Earlier this year, Shipping Solutions advanced to the 15th position in the global Top 50 carriers ranking published by Alphaliner. This achievement underscores the expanding strength of DP World’s network, operational efficiency, and customer partnerships worldwide.

The improved ranking reflects the company’s strategic fleet expansion and growing footprint in regional and international shipping corridors.

Long-Term Commitment to India’s Trade Infrastructure

DP World is also deepening its long-term commitment to India’s maritime and trade ecosystem. The company plans to invest $5 billion in India over the coming years, signaling strong confidence in the country’s logistics growth potential.

In addition, Shipping Solutions has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited, a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The collaboration focuses on developing and scaling sustainable coastal and shortsea shipping services across India.

Strengthening the India–Middle East Trade Corridor

The acquisition of DP World Chennai represents more than fleet expansion  it is a strategic step toward building stronger, more reliable maritime links between India and the Middle East. By enhancing service reliability, expanding owned capacity, and investing in integrated logistics solutions, DP World continues to position itself as a key enabler of regional and global trade.

As supply chains demand greater resilience and agility, initiatives like this reinforce India’s growing importance in international shipping and strengthen the India–Middle East corridor for years to come.