Jebel Ali Port Welcomes Historic First Call of New Gemini Service

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

DP World has marked a major milestone as Jebel Ali Port received its first vessel under the Gemini Cooperation, a special partnership between global shipping giants Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk. This collaboration aims to improve the ocean freight network and make global trade more efficient.

On February 5, the MV Houston Express, a 15,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) container ship, arrived at Jebel Ali Port as part of the Indian Ocean Service. This service plays a crucial role in boosting trade connections between the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, and North and South Europe.

To celebrate the arrival of the vessel, DP World and Hapag-Lloyd’s senior management hosted a special event at the port. The gathering highlighted Jebel Ali Port’s importance as a key player in international trade and logistics.

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The Gemini Cooperation is a groundbreaking partnership between Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk. It is designed to build a fast, reliable, and efficient ocean shipping network across seven major trade routes. The Gemini network consists of 57 mainliner and shuttle services and operates about 340 advanced vessels, many of which are moving towards using cleaner and more sustainable fuels.

Strengthening Global Trade
Speaking about this achievement, Shahab Al Jassmi, Senior Vice President, Ports & Terminals Commercial, DP World GCC, said:

“The arrival of the first Gemini vessel at Jebel Ali Port proves that we are the top maritime hub in the Middle East. Our port operations are smooth, reliable, and well-equipped with advanced logistics. This is why major shipping companies trust DP World. The Gemini network will further improve global trade, and we are excited to strengthen our partnership.”

Christiaan Goeman Borgesius, Senior Director Operations Region Middle East, Hapag-Lloyd, also shared his thoughts:

“Now that the Gemini network is fully active, we are thrilled to see our first Hapag-Lloyd vessel, MV Houston Express, reach Dubai. It took more than a year of dedicated teamwork to bring Gemini to life, and this moment is a big achievement for us.

The goal of Gemini is to provide a fast, flexible, and dependable ocean freight network. Strategic hubs like Jebel Ali Port are key to making this vision a reality.”

This partnership is expected to strengthen supply chains, improve trade connections, and make shipping more efficient worldwide. With Jebel Ali Port playing a central role, the Gemini Cooperation is set to reshape the future of global logistics.