RIYADH: Dubai-based logistics giant DP World has entered exclusive negotiations for a long-term lease to develop and operate a container terminal at the Port of Corpus Christi in Texas, a move that would mark its first container terminal on the US Gulf Coast.
According to a press release, the agreement, announced on June 16, would see DP World design, build, and operate a new container terminal at one of the nation’s busiest ports by tonnage.
The port authority said the terminal would expand containerized cargo capabilities, strengthen supply chain connectivity, and support long-term job creation across South Texas.
The move aligns with the broader ambitions of Dubai and the UAE to strengthen their position as global trade and logistics hubs. DP World, which is owned by Dubai World, the investment holding company of the Dubai government, is at the center of the emirate’s strategy to expand its infrastructure footprint across key international trade corridors.
Brian Enright, CEO of DP World in the Americas, said: “The US Gulf Coast is one of the nation’s most important trade and economic corridors, and demand for efficient, resilient port infrastructure continues to grow.”
He added: “The Port of Corpus Christi presents a significant opportunity to expand container capacity, strengthen supply chain connectivity, and create new pathways for American businesses to access global markets.”
DP World handles about 10 percent of global container trade annually through a network of more than 60 ports and terminals worldwide. The company said it would work closely with local labor and workforce partners to support terminal operations and long-term job creation in the region.
The Port of Corpus Christi is a major gateway for US energy, agricultural, and industrial exports. The introduction of container capabilities would diversify its cargo operations and open new opportunities for regional businesses across South Texas.
Port CEO Kent Britton pointed to last year’s completion of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project as a catalyst for the deal.
“Completion of the landmark Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project in June 2025 — thanks largely to investments by the federal government — has unlocked the potential for existing port customers to meet evolving demands of the global marketplace while spurring additional cargo diversification,” he said, adding that DP World’s global expertise in terminal operations and integrated logistics makes it “a strong partner” as the port explores the development of container services.
The exclusive negotiation period will focus on terminal design, capacity planning, and investment structure.
