DP World has launched a new weekly sea service that connects Dubai’s Mina Rashid port directly with Iraq’s Umm Qasr Port. The company says this route is faster, more reliable, and more predictable than moving goods by road.
The trip takes about 36 hours and will run once a week. Each sailing can carry up to 145 accompanied trailers on DP World Express, a large Ro-Ro ship that is 166.75 meters long. The vessel is set to start operating in December 2025.
The launch event was held at Mina Rashid and attended by senior officials from both countries, including Iraq’s Ambassador to the UAE, Dr. Muzaffar Mustafa Al-Jubouri, and DP World’s Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem.
What makes this service different is that full trailers move with their drivers onboard. This allows for direct, secure, door-to-door transport, making it easier and quicker to move goods onward to nearby markets.
DP World said the new route will simplify cross-border trade, reduce cargo handling, and lower costs and transit times for businesses. It also supports cleaner and more efficient supply chains across the region. The service will boost access to Iraq’s main commercial hubs and support two-way trade, with goods shipped back to the UAE as well.
