Dubai ranks fifth globally and first in the Arab world in the 2025 Shipping Centre Development Index, solidifying its maritime leadership.
DUBAI: Dubai has secured its place among the world’s elite maritime cities, ranking fifth globally and first in the Arab world in the 2025 International Shipping Centre Development Index. The report, jointly issued by China’s Xinhua News Agency and the Baltic Exchange, cements Dubai’s growing stature as the crown jewel of the Middle East’s maritime sector.
The index evaluates global maritime hubs based on infrastructure, services, innovation, and sustainability. Dubai’s consistent progress has earned it the title thanks to its robust ecosystem, led by Jebel Ali Port, and strategic initiatives from the Dubai Maritime Authority under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of Dubai Maritime Authority, praised the recognition: “Dubai’s ranking reflects visionary leadership, successful collaboration with the private sector, and our continued commitment to global maritime excellence.”
The index highlights Dubai’s diverse services including navigation, shipbuilding, and repair. Notably, the Dubai Maritime Transport Plan 2030 aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aiming to increase maritime transport usage and expand the emirate’s shipping and logistics capabilities.
Jebel Ali Port played a key role in the ranking, handling 15.5 million TEUs in 2024—the highest since 2015—and contributing 18% of the total global volume handled by DP World. The port’s continuous investment in sustainability, such as biofuels, solar energy, and electric container vehicles, has led to a reduction of over 2,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Captain Ibrahim Al Blooshi, Executive Director of Dubai Ports Authority, noted that Dubai’s ports—Jebel Ali, Port Rashid, and Hamriyah—are vital to the emirate’s economic and environmental ambitions. “This recognition is a testament to our operational resilience and our role in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33,” he said.
Dubai ranks top five globally in the 2025 Shipping Centre Development Index as it continues to lead the Arab maritime sector and shape the future of global shipping.
