Syria, UAE Sign $800 Million Deal to Modernize Tartus Port Amid Sanctions Easing
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Syria has signed a memorandum of understanding with Dubai-based logistics giant DP World to invest $800 million in the development and operation of a multi-purpose terminal at Tartus Port, the state-run SANA news agency reported on Friday.
The agreement, signed by Syria’s General Authority for Land and Maritime Ports, aims to transform Tartus into a major regional trade hub by upgrading its infrastructure and expanding its capacity to handle both commercial and industrial freight.
The deal comes at a politically significant moment, coinciding with the U.S. administration’s announced plans to lift sanctions on Syria, signaling a possible shift in the country’s economic trajectory after years of international isolation.
Under the memorandum, DP World will oversee the development, management, and operation of the Tartus terminal. The agreement includes the establishment of industrial zones, free trade areas, dry ports, and cargo transit facilities across strategic locations inside Syria, potentially revitalizing the country’s logistical backbone.
Syrian officials touted the partnership as a step toward economic recovery and regional integration, while DP World has yet to issue a public statement on the matter.
The agreement is widely viewed as part of a broader regional effort to reintegrate Syria into the Middle East’s economic architecture. The timing—days after U.S. President Donald Trump met Syrian President Ahmad al-Shar’a in Riyadh—underscores the geopolitical backdrop to this high-stakes investment.
President Trump, following his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Gulf leaders, announced intentions to lift sanctions imposed under the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act. The act, enacted in 2020, imposed stringent measures on entities dealing with the former Assad regime and its affiliates.
Speaking on Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the administration is preparing exemptions to the Caesar Act, allowing targeted investment in reconstruction sectors deemed essential for civilian infrastructure and economic stabilization.
“These exemptions are being crafted to ensure any engagement promotes transparency, economic resilience, and human rights protections,” Rubio stated.
Although it remains unclear whether the Tartus Port project will fall under these exemptions, the timing of the memorandum suggests coordination between regional actors anticipating a shift in U.S. policy.
Tartus, located along Syria’s western Mediterranean coast, has long served as a key maritime gateway. The port also hosts a Russian naval base, adding to its strategic relevance. The UAE’s investment through DP World may serve to diversify Syria’s foreign partnerships and reduce dependency on traditional state allies.
For northeastern Syria, where the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) maintains de facto governance and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) provide security, the deal could signal broader economic openings—if accompanied by decentralization and inclusive development strategies.
Experts suggest that for economic reconstruction to be sustainable, investment projects must address regional disparities and involve local administrations with proven records of stability and inclusivity, such as those in AANES-controlled areas.