DP World has pledged to invest an additional $5bn in India to strengthen its integrated supply chain network, expand logistics capabilities, and support both export and domestic trade.
The new commitment adds to the $3bn the Dubai-based global trade enabler has already invested in India over the past three decades.
Announced during India Maritime Week 2025, the investment reinforces DP World’s long-term role in developing India’s maritime and logistics ecosystem through a combination of infrastructure, technology, and skill development partnerships.
DP World invests in India
The announcement follows the signing of five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).
These agreements are expected to unlock significant business and employment opportunities across the country’s maritime economy.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said the company’s increased investment reflects its enduring commitment to India’s economic transformation.
Bin Sulayem said: “DP World has been a part of India’s growth story for nearly three decades. This new investment combined with the strategic partnerships reaffirm our commitment to advancing India’s maritime and logistics industry and cementing the nation’s position in global trade.
“Aimed at further lowering logistics costs, supporting local manufacturing, and expanding access to markets across the country, these initiatives will strengthen India’s innovative and sustainable maritime capabilities”.
Bin Sulayem said DP World’s expansion strategy aligns with national priorities such as PM Gati Shakti, Sagarmala, and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, reinforcing the shared goal of building a connected, confident, and self-reliant India.
Five key MoUs to drive green shipping, shipbuilding and smart logistics
The five agreements signed by DP World during India Maritime Week 2025 cover a range of strategic priorities, from decarbonisation and digitalisation to skill development and infrastructure modernisation.
- Unifeeder, a DP World company, and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited exchanged an MoU to advance green coastal and short-sea shipping across India. The partnership will focus on scaling sustainable coastal transport solutions and reducing carbon emissions
- A Heads of Terms agreement between Cochin Shipyard Limited and Drydocks World, a DP World company, will expand and operate the International Ship Repair Facility in Kochi, strengthening India’s position as a global maritime services hub
- Cochin Shipyard Limited, Drydocks World, and the Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding signed a tripartite MoU to jointly advance skill development in shipbuilding and repair — enhancing India’s maritime talent pool and technical expertise
- Cochin Port Authority and DP World agreed to upgrade maritime infrastructure in Kerala, including improvements to handling capacity at the International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) in Kochi to boost operational efficiency
- Deendayal Port Authority, DP World, and Nevomo (MagRail) signed an agreement to design and install a 750-metre MagRail Booster pilot track, introducing automated, low-emission port transport technologies to India
Strengthening India logistics
DP World said its expanded presence will reinforce the company’s role in supporting India’s trade competitiveness by reducing logistics costs and improving multimodal connectivity.
The company currently operates in more than 200 locations across India, employing over 24,000 people directly and indirectly.
The new investments and partnerships announced at India Maritime Week 2025 are expected to further expand DP World’s footprint, generating thousands of additional jobs and new business opportunities across sectors.
According to DP World, these developments will contribute to India’s ambition to become a global leader in sustainable and technologically advanced maritime infrastructure, reflecting the company’s core philosophy of positioning trade as a force for good.
