DP World advances Senegal deep-water port project after early completion of key marine works

DP World has completed major dredging activities at Senegal's Port of Ndayane 13 months ahead of schedule, enabling earlier construction of critical marine infrastructure. The milestone strengthens progress toward the port's planned 2028 commissioning and supports Senegal's ambition to expand its role in regional trade and logistics.

DP World has completed the principal dredging phase for the Port of Ndayane in Senegal 13 months earlier than originally planned, allowing the next stage of marine and quay construction to begin ahead of schedule. According to official disclosures, the work involved developing a 5-kilometer navigation channel, a turning basin and a berth pocket designed to accommodate some of the world's largest container vessels. The overall port development remains on track for completion in 2028.

The early delivery represents a significant engineering achievement because the project required excavation through predominantly solid rock, with more than 95% of dredged material consisting of hard geological formations. The works were completed without blasting, reducing environmental disturbance while maintaining construction progress. More than 1,000 people are currently employed on the project as civil and marine activities accelerate.

The development is expected to strengthen Senegal's maritime infrastructure by creating a new deep-water gateway capable of supporting higher container volumes and larger vessels. As the existing Port of Dakar approaches its operational capacity, the Port of Ndayane is intended to provide additional capacity for international trade, improve supply chain efficiency and reinforce Senegal's position as a logistics hub serving West Africa. The project is also expected to benefit shipping operators, exporters, importers and regional manufacturers that depend on efficient port infrastructure.

For businesses and investors, the accelerated construction timeline reduces execution risk and brings forward the availability of strategic logistics infrastructure that could stimulate trade, industrial investment and economic activity across the region. DP World, a Dubai-based global ports and logistics operator, manages terminals, logistics assets and supply chain infrastructure across multiple continents. The company has operated the Port of Dakar since 2008 and continues to expand its investment in Senegal's maritime sector through the Port of Ndayane project, valued at approximately USD 1.20 billion.