Jebel Ali Port Slashes Emissions By Expanding Electric Fleet 10X in 2025

In a bold push toward green logistics, DP World has ramped up its electric operations at Jebel Ali Port, expanding its electric internal terminal vehicle (eITV) fleet tenfold over the past year - from 14 units in December 2024 to 146 units by October 2025.

The move is projected to reduce diesel consumption and cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 10%, a saving roughly equivalent to removing 2,255 cars from Dubai’s roads annually.

Electrification Strategy and Fleet Make-up

The upgraded fleet is a blend of newly procured electric models and retrofitted vehicles. DP World’s engineering teams have converted 35 diesel units into electric units, while sourcing over 100 new eITVs from global manufacturers to meet the scale-up.

To support continuous operations, the port has deployed a network of rapid-charging stations across key terminal zones, ensuring minimal downtime and steady throughput.

DP World Expands Vehicle Capacity at Jebel Ali to Meet Surging Demand

In addition to the eITVs (which shuttle containers between quay cranes, yards, and gates), DP World has introduced 11 electric empty container handlers - machines used to stack and relocate empty containers within terminal spaces - further broadening its electrified asset base.

Strategic Importance and Broader Impact

DP World frames this electrification drive as a strategic pillar aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 ambitions. Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & MD of DP World GCC, emphasized that scaling the electric fleet helps build “future-ready and more resilient supply chains” benefiting customers and communities alike.

Ports and shipping are significant contributors to global transport emissions, forecasts suggest maritime and port operations may account for around 3% of transport-related emissions worldwide.

By converting a major transshipment hub like Jebel Ali to electric operations, DP World is setting a regional benchmark for green port infrastructure and low-carbon logistics. Observers say the move may encourage other ports in the Middle East and beyond to adopt similar decarbonisation strategies.

Challenges and Outlook

While the expansion is impressive, DP World must manage several challenges to maintain momentum:

• Grid demand and energy sourcing: Ensuring that the electricity used is derived from clean or renewable sources is key. Otherwise, carbon savings may be diluted.

• Maintenance and lifecycle costs: Electric fleets require different maintenance regimes and spare parts logistics compared to traditional diesel fleets.

• Scalability to other operations: Extending electrification beyond terminal movers (eITVs) to heavier equipment like quay cranes and yard gantries will demand further innovation.

Still, industry analysts in the region see this as a forward step in integrating sustainability into port operations. As autonomous logistics, smart grid synergies, and battery technology improve, the case for electrified ports is expected to grow stronger.

If successfully maintained and scaled, Jebel Ali’s electric fleet expansion could mark a turning point in how ports balance operational scale with environmental responsibility.

Read More: World’s Largest and Greenest Vehicle Carrier Makes First Call at Jebel Ali Port