Global supply chains are no strangers to disruption, whether caused by trade disputes, geopolitics or the unpredictable forces of climate change. Amidst these challenges, an often-overlooked vulnerability lies in supply chain data gaps.
Rail freight has the potential to revolutionise supply chains in both developed and developing nations, providing a key role in promoting sustainability and economic growth.
Healthy societies transform economies, yet the pandemics of the past few years have demonstrated that healthcare logistics is a complex beast and unique to that of any other sector.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are proving to be the most popular replacement for fossil fuel cars. So much so that by 2030 electric vehicles will represent over 60% of vehicles sold globally.
Water is crucial for life on Earth and vital for our well-being. Businesses, including ours, can play a significant role in changing how water is used.
Explore our Annual Report to uncover DP World's strategic, operational, and financial highlights. Delve into the Chairman's message and our impactful case studies, reflecting our dedication to transforming global trade. For a deeper dive into our journey and achievements, the complete report is available for download.
Message from the chairman
"In 2023, DP World achieved remarkable progress, embarking on a journey marked by innovations across the Group, adept navigation through geopolitical tensions and the growing challenges posed by climate issues."
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem Group Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
We set a sustainability precedent at Southampton by cutting carbon emissions by 55%, becoming the UK's first port to fully switch to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil. This environmental milestone was matched by a partnership with A.P. Moller-Maersk to enhance decarbonisation and a rating upgrade from Moody’s, affirming our strong market position.
February
We expanded our global footprint with the Tuna-Tekra mega-container terminal project in India and formed joint ventures to upgrade the UK's Rosebank oil field and digitalise international trade. A partnership with McLaren Racing showcased our logistics prowess in the high-speed world of Formula 1.
March
The Berbera Economic Zone, a collaboration with the Somaliland Government, was inaugurated, promoting regional investment and job creation. Technological innovation was highlighted with the launch of a new air cargo hub in the Dominican Republic. Significant investment milestones were also achieved in global logistics.
April
We reported notable growth in its global operations, with a 3.7% increase in container handling. The Dakar Container Terminal experienced record-breaking throughput, emphasising operational excellence.
May
The launch of a direct freight service between the UAE and Iraq marked a strategic expansion, while the Vancouver Port’s expansion bolstered Canada’s Indo-Pacific trade. Environmental commitment was underlined by a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
June
We celebrated the educational advancement of future leaders and furthered its sustainability agenda with significant investments in electric straddle carriers in London and renewable energy initiatives in Brazil. Additionally, expansion plans in Indonesia were set to double container terminal capacity.
July
We joined forces with global organisations to combat illegal wildlife trade and entered the world of golf by partnering with the Ryder Cup, showcasing its brand on a global stage.
August
Financial resilience was demonstrated with impressive mid-year results, and a significant investment was announced for the development of the Tuna-Tekra terminal in India, underlining our growth strategy.
September
The commitment to sustainability was further evidenced by us becoming a Principal Pathway Partner for COP28, aligning with its ambitious carbon neutrality goals.
October
Ground-breaking for a new terminal in East Java marked a strategic expansion in Indonesia. We reinforced its sustainability commitment by raising $1.5 billion through a Green Sukuk and expanded its logistics capabilities with key acquisitions and partnerships.
November
A partnership with IRENA underscored our commitment to renewable energy. The significant reduction in UAE’s carbon emissions and the success of the Global Freight Summit in Dubai highlighted our role in shaping future supply chains.
December
Our environmental initiatives continued with its participation in the First Movers Coalition and the launch of the Zero Emission Port Alliance at COP28. The establishment of the UAE’s first coral exhibition with Coral Vita demonstrated its commitment to environmental education and conservation.
Revenue is in US$ million before separately disclosed items. The results of the Group are set out in detail in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes in the full report.
US$1,032m
Profit attributable to owners
Profit attributable to owners of the company is calculated before taking separately disclosed items into account and after minority interest.
US$5,108m
Adjusted EBITDA
Growing adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and amortisation) is a key measure of value delivered to shareholders. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated including our share of profit from equity accounted investees before separately disclosed items.
28.0%
Adjusted EBITDA margin
Adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and amortisation) is a key measure of value delivered to shareholders. The adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing adjusted EBITDA by revenue.
We have demonstrated our sustainability commitment by becoming a Principal Pathway Partner for COP28, embracing ambitious carbon-neutrality goals.
New HQ
We announced that we are relocating our global head office to Expo City Dubai, a landmark move in our 50-year journey, expanding our global supply chain solutions.
Second Global Freight Summit
The Global Freight Summit, held in Dubai on November 15, 2023, attracted over 4,000 participants, focusing on creating resilient supply chains, inspired by our research.
Ryder Cup
Ryder Cup Europe and PGA of America announced our new partnership, marking us as a Worldwide Partner of the Ryder Cup.
Berbera
In partnership with the Government of Somaliland, we have inaugurated the Berbera Economic Zone, transforming it into a pivotal trade hub in the Horn of Africa.
New acquisition
We have strengthened our commitment to the automotive industry by acquiring CFR Rinkens, a specialised logistics service provider based in Long Beach, California.
$10bn investment
Since 2012, we've invested over $10 billion (AED37.3 billion) in logistics, ranking us among the top five global investors, as recent FDI data shows.
Decarbonisation
We cut carbon emissions from our UAE operations by nearly 50% this year by accessing renewably produced energy.
BUSINESS REVIEW
With a vision to lead the future of world trade, we are working towards providing end-to-end supply chain solutions for our customers and partners.
In a year of strategic expansion and groundbreaking partnerships, we have redefined logistics, marking our presence as a global leader in trade and transport solutions.
2023 was pivotal for us in logistics, with expansions like the Dominican Republic's air cargo hub and the Berbera Economic Zone in Somaliland. We've also extended our reach in Sub-Saharan Africa through collaboration with Standard Bank and acquired CFR Rinkens, enhancing our automotive logistics services. Our UK-based "Modal Shift Programme" aims to reduce carbon emissions significantly by shifting freight from road to rail. Despite economic challenges, our persistent investment and focus on innovation and sustainability have solidified our position as a leading player in the global logistics sector.
Ports & Terminals
In 2023, we expanded our ports and terminals network, embracing innovation and sustainability, to create greater trade opportunities for our customers.
This year, we've bolstered our global network with key investments in Tanzania, Indonesia, and India, expanding and modernising crucial ports. In the UAE, we've launched initiatives to retrofit port terminal tractors as part of our decarbonisation efforts. Furthermore, we've formed the Zero Emission Port Alliance (ZEPA) to electrify container handling equipment, and conducted a pioneering study on climate change impacts on our ports and terminals. Despite market volatility, we continue diversifying and advancing our value proposition in port operations.
Marine Services
Leading the way in sustainable Marine Services: our commitment to decarbonisation and efficiency in 2023
In 2023, our Marine Services significantly reduced its carbon footprint, surpassing our sustainability goals. We've launched P&O Ferries’ hybrid ship, P&O Pioneer, showcasing our commitment to low-carbon marine transport. Furthermore, we introduced the first direct freight service between the UAE and Iraq, enhancing efficiency and safety. These efforts reflect our dedication to sustainable marine services, efficient deployment networks, and reduced fuel consumption, aligning with our environmental stewardship objectives and contributing to global decarbonisation efforts.
Technology
Revolutionising global logistics: our technological advancements and milestones in 2023
We've achieved significant technological strides in 2023, enhancing global logistics with cutting-edge Robotics and IoT. Key developments include launching our proprietary technology for freight-forwarding and celebrating two years of DUBUY.com, connecting over 5,000 vendors to our logistics network. We've also partnered with UAE Trade Connect to combat fraudulent invoices. Our warehouses are now equipped with advanced robotics for efficient operations, and through a partnership with Standard Bank, we're providing accessible trade finance in Africa, underscoring our commitment to digitising global trade.
OUR STORIES
Gateway to a new era
We are revolutionising trade at Romania’s port of Constanta by upgrading the port infrastructure to alleviate congestion and integrate with existing road and rail networks.
DP World's trailblazing endeavour in Sub-Saharan Africa is revolutionising trade dynamics and contributing significantly to economic and social development in the region.
DP World's strategic role in Caribbean supply chain transformation demonstrated the effectiveness of partnerships in navigating global trade challenges.