DP World names Yuvraj Narayan CEO as Essa Kazim takes chair

DP World Ltd has appointed Yuvraj Narayan as chief executive officer and Essa Kazim as chairman, the Dubai Media Office said in a statement on X on Friday, marking a significant leadership restructuring at the state-owned global ports and logistics operator.

Both positions were previously held by Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, who has led the company for nearly two decades and overseen its expansion into one of the world’s largest port operators. The official statement did not clarify whether Bin Sulayem will continue at the company in another capacity.

The move separates the roles of chairman and CEO at DP World, which operates more than 70 marine and inland terminals across six continents and plays a central role in Dubai’s trade and logistics strategy.

The company is wholly owned by Dubai World after being taken private in 2020 in a deal valued at roughly $5 billion.

Narayan, who previously served as DP World’s group chief financial officer, has been closely involved in the company’s financial strategy and global expansion, including investments in logistics parks, free zones, and supply chain services.

His elevation to CEO signals continuity in operational leadership at a time when global shipping routes face pressure from geopolitical tensions and disruptions in the Red Sea.

Kazim, a veteran Dubai official and founding chief executive of the Dubai International Financial Centre, brings deep experience in financial services and governance.

His appointment as chairman could indicate a greater emphasis on corporate oversight and strategic alignment with Dubai’s broader economic agenda.

DP World has in recent years diversified beyond port operations into end-to-end logistics, warehousing, and supply chain solutions, positioning itself as a trade enabler rather than solely a terminal operator.

The leadership change comes as global logistics companies navigate shifting trade patterns, higher financing costs, and supply chain realignments.

The company has not issued further details on the transition timeline or Bin Sulayem’s future role.