Port call by mega vessel with a capacity of 24,000 TEU signifies Dubai’s resilience as a global trade hub despite the pandemic

 Global trade enabler DP World’s flagship Jebel Ali Port welcomed HMM GDANSK, one of the world’s largest container vessels, which is now on the return leg of her maiden international voyage between the Far East and Europe. Jebel Ali is the only port in the Arabian Gulf region connected to the arterial FE3 (Far East 3) loop with the ability to accommodate mega vessels.

HMM GDANSK is 400 metres long and has a capacity of 24,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent container units). The vessel and its crew led by Captain Hyungik Cho were welcomed by DP World UAE Region, and other officials from Jebel Ali Port.

The landmark mega carrier arrived from DP World’s London Gateway at the port before sailing to Singapore, her next call in a journey that began in Busan, South Korea on 29 June, with calls at Yantian, Hong Kong, Hamburg, Rotterdam and Antwerp.

Jebel Ali is one of the few ports on the Gulf that can accommodate mega vessels with the capability to handle ten at a time. It has a total handling capacity of 22.4 Million TEU and the visit underscores its capability as the region’s premier gateway port on the Asia-Europe sea trade route.

Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, said:

“We are honoured to welcome HMM GDANSK and her crew, who are steadfastly plying the global shipping routes to keep essential trade flowing. It’s something we could closely identify within DP World, especially as our teams kept critical supplies such as food and medicines moving smoothly through Jebel Ali during the recent lockdown. The port call by one of the largest container carriers is a testimonial to Jebel Ali’s true strength and capacity.”

“Our early investment in digital technology and automation ensured we faced minimal disruption at Jebel Ali Port. We employ today’s frontline technologies like robotics, automation, Internet of Things, Big Data, virtual reality and cybersecurity to build and sustain our efficiencies. This has underpinned our capabilities as an essential economic service at a time when our customers need us most.”

As an integrated multi-modal hub offering sea, air and land connectivity, complemented by extensive logistics facilities, Jebel Ali Port plays a vital role in the UAE economy. It is a premier gateway for over 80 weekly shipping services, connecting more than 150 ports worldwide.