The key trade event provided the opportunity for host port DP World to demonstrate its dexterity in wide-ranging port handling activities
DP World’s high profile as a trade enabler was further enhanced as Jebel Ali Port, run by the global port operator’s UAE Region, highlighted its offerings and versatility as the region’s premier gateway for break-bulk and project cargo at the recently concluded 4th Breakbulk Middle East 2019 Conference and Exhibition in Dubai.
Hosted by DP World, UAE Region, Breakbulk ME 2019 attracted the region’s leading shippers, project cargo and logistics professionals.
As Expo 2020’s Premier Global Trade Partner, DP World has been scaling up its flagship Jebel Ali Port and hub operations to handle Expo-bound cargo and related services.
Break-bulk cargo is non-containerised and is usually transported as individual pieces due to the cargo often being oversized and overweight, implying regular freight containers cannot ordinarily accommodate the cargo. Cargoes comprise goods such as construction equipment, oil and gas equipment, power and utility apparatus, yachts and steel and other odd-sized items.
Spurt in operations
The throughput of non-containerised cargo such as break-bulk, bulk and project cargo has increased significantly at Jebel Ali Port, recording an average annual throughput of 4.8 million metric tonnes (MT) of break-bulk and 4.1 million MT of bulk between 2013 and 2017.
DP World, UAE Region, is directly responsible for ensuring all Expo-related cargoes brought into Dubai are handled safely and in a timely manner. Non-containerised cargo constitutes a growing and significant part of its business accounting for nearly a quarter of total volumes.
Against this backdrop the stakes are high for DP World and Jebel Ali Port. “Breakbulk Middle East 2019 is the appropriate time to bring focus and attention to the break-bulk and project cargo sector, especially in light of the enormous US$ 900bn worth of infrastructure projects in the pipeline,” commented Mohammed Al Muallem, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region on this occasion.
Multi-purpose capabilities
The world class hub services at Jebel Ali Port are complemented by a high degree of specialisation in the storage and handling of all kinds of cargo. DP World’s integrated port and logistics offerings at Jebel Ali are supported by purpose-built facilities for the expanding demand of break-bulk, project cargo, Ro-Ro and other general cargo handling services.
The importance of break-bulk is underscored by DP World’s focus and integrated approach in harnessing Jebel Ali Port’s operations and services for its numerous industrial parks and free zones such as Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), National Industries Park and Dubai Auto Zone, its online trade services platform Dubai Trade, and security services through World Security.
This unified business model providing a comprehensive logistics and supply chain network of core competencies and related services has allowed the company to position itself across the supply chain and provide seamless, customised support to suit existing market conditions.
Mega projects to boost port operations
With a staggering US$ 900bn worth of projects planned or underway, the UAE is the MENA region’s second biggest projects market. That includes US$ 589bn worth of confirmed, announced projects under construction and a pipeline of non-awarded mega projects of about US$ 310bn. As a spin-off, this holds promise for potential future business that bodes well for national and regional trade and provides a major fillip for operations at Jebel Ali Port.
DP World’s flagship facility, Jebel Ali Port, is the premier gateway for over 80 weekly services connecting more than 140 ports worldwide and hinterland road connectivity across the GCC and the Middle East.
Jebel Ali Port is well-equipped to handle the growing demand for heavy lift and project cargo offering customised solutions (including space for storage and assembly) for irregular shipments, regardless of the size or weight.
