Syria's General Authority for Land and Sea Ports has signed a memorandum of understanding with Dubai Ports World (DP World) worth $800mn to rebuild Tartus port, SANA reported on May 16.

DP World is a multinational logistics company based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It specialises in cargo logistics, port terminal operations, maritime services and free trade zones.

The agreement marks a historic step to rebuilding port infrastructure and logistics services in Syria through investment in the development, management, and operation of a multi-purpose terminal at Tartus Port, which has been heavily damaged in recent years due to the country's civil war. 

The Tartus project aims to raise the port's efficiency, increase its operational capacity, and enhance its role as a pivotal hub for regional and international trade after years of damage and sanctions on the country.

Both parties have agreed to cooperate in establishing industrial zones and free zones, as well as dry ports and freight transit stations in strategic locations throughout Syria, reflecting their commitment to supporting economic development and facilitating trade and transport.

Syria concluded this deal during US President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East as part of efforts to attract foreign investments to revitalise its struggling economy.

DP World, a leading global logistics and port operator, has been actively expanding its footprint in the Middle East through various initiatives aimed at enhancing trade and logistics capabilities in the region.

In early 2025, DP World announced significant investments in expanding its port facilities in the UAE and Oman to increase cargo handling capacity and improve operational efficiency, catering to growing demand for logistics services in the Gulf region.

The company has also signed an MoU with the Saudi Arabian government to develop integrated logistics zones across the Kingdom, aiming to facilitate trade and improve supply chain efficiency to support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives.