Official opening of new DP World Djibouti oil terminal facility

AME Info

President of Djibouti, His Excellency Ismail Omar Guelleh today officially opened a new state-of-the-art DP World-managed oil terminal facility in Djibouti, with a ceremony culminating in a reception on board the US Navy vessel USS Vicksburg for local and international dignitaries, including the US Ambassador, Marguerita D. Ragsdale and Vice Admiral Patrick Walsh.

operator DP World has invested US$30 million in the US$100 million Doraleh Oil Terminal project and is contracted by the Djibouti Government to manage the 240,000 metric tonne facility overall, working closely with oil companies Shell, Mobil and Total, commercial and

non-commercial customers including the US and French navies and manager of the oil terminal facility Horizon Terminals.

Construction of the more than one kilometre long causeway for the terminal began in February 2004, with the infrastructure largely completed in 2005. The terminal has been

adding capabilities in the management of the full range of liquid fuels since then, culminating in the completion of the bunkering facility officially opened today that can handle two large vessels simultaneously.

At the ceremony, DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem said the original plans for the oil terminal were for just half the current capacity. “The expansion was accelerated by the

United States Navy who have been key drivers of the project and close partners with DP World and the Djibouti Government, along with the oil companies.”

Commenting on DP World’s involvement, Mr Bin Sulayem said,

“We invest for the long term,” he said, “working in partnership with our customers to meet their needs today and tomorrow. Djibouti is an excellent example of that approach.

Mr Bin Sulayem pointed out that DP World was the largest contributor to Djibouti’s economy.
“We have invested extensively outside the port, including in the freezone, the airport and in roads to facilitate the movement of fuel and goods. Dubai itself is also investing in other

business in Djibouti including construction of a five star hotel and resort, recognising its potential as a tourist destination.”

Mr Bin Sulayem added that security was vitally important in Djibouti and something the company was strongly focused on, working closely with customers such as the navy as well as the oil companies, enhancing security beyond that required by regulation.