Tartus: DP World has commenced operations at Tartus Port following a formal handover from the Syrian General Authority for Land and Sea Ports and welcomed the new harbour tug Al Fath into service.
According to Emirates News Agency, this marks a significant milestone under DP World's 30-year concession agreement for Tartus Port, which includes a planned $800 million investment. This investment represents one of the largest international investments in Syria's logistics sector in recent years. The concession aims to support Syria's economic recovery and transform Tartus into an efficient trade and logistics hub.
Fahad Al Banna, CEO of DP World Tartus, stated, "We have embarked on a journey to transform Tartus Port into a world-class maritime gateway. Working closely with the Syrian government and General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, we are committed to applying DP World's global expertise to build a modern and digitally-enabled port that will grow trade, create opportunities and firmly position Tartus as a key trade hub in the Eastern Mediterranean."
Harbour tugs play a crucial role in guiding large vessels in confined spaces and act as first-response assets in marine emergencies. The newly arrived 22-metre Al Fath has a 50-tonne bollard pull with class-rated firefighting water cannons, supporting safe and reliable ship calls, improving berth approach control, and raising overall port safety.
DP World is currently undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the port's infrastructure, including equipment, quay readiness, and yard and warehouse facilities. This phase involves technical surveys, operational studies, and design planning to develop a detailed redevelopment roadmap.
In the immediate term, the focus will be on dredging port access channels, basins, and berths to achieve optimal design depths. Along with the rehabilitation and replacement of existing handling equipment, these works will enable the port to meet growing demand for bulk and breakbulk cargo.
DP World will also introduce its proprietary digital platforms to enhance operational efficiency and transparency. Staff training and process optimisation will be implemented to improve productivity and reduce vessel turnaround times to international benchmarks. Safety audits and training programmes will ensure high safety standards across all port operations.
In the medium term, the redevelopment programme will include upgrading port infrastructure and superstructure, expanding handling and storage capacity, and investing in bulk handling systems and new containerised and non-containerised facilities.
These initiatives will position Tartus Port as a key maritime and logistics hub in the Eastern Mediterranean, supporting regional and international trade flows and contributing significantly to Syria's reconstruction and economic recovery efforts.
Fahad Al Banna brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as Senior Vice President Container Operations at Jebel Ali Port. His appointment underscores DP World's commitment to applying global expertise and best practices to local markets, supporting long-term economic growth and resilience.
Since joining DP World in 2005, Fahad Al Banna has advanced through various leadership positions across port operations, digital transformation, and terminal development. His achievements include upgrading port management systems to improve automation and efficiency, as well as managing major infrastructure projects such as Container Terminal 4 in Jebel Ali Port.
In his new role as CEO of DP World Tartus, Al Banna will oversee the modernisation of Tartus Port, benefiting from significant capital expenditure in infrastructure upgrades, operational efficiency, and workforce development.
Reflecting on his appointment, Fahad Al Banna said, "It is an honour to take on this responsibility at such an important moment in Syria's history. We are grateful to the Syrian Port Authority for their support and collaboration throughout this time and confident that the redevelopment of Tartus Port will contribute to the country's economic revival, support jobs and strengthen the flow of trade across the region."