His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced a significant leadership appointment, naming Abdulla bin Damithan as the new Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC). The decree, issued on February 14, 2026, positions Damithan—a veteran of the global logistics and trade sector—to steer one of Dubai’s most vital economic engines, ensuring the emirate maintains its competitive edge in international commerce.
The appointment underscores Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its integrated trade infrastructure. PCFC plays a crucial role in overseeing and coordinating the emirate’s expansive network of ports, customs operations, and economic free zones. Damithan brings over two decades of experience, primarily gained at DP World, a global leader in smart trade solutions, making him a strategic choice for the corporation’s top post.
Leveraging Deep Expertise in Global Logistics
Damithan’s professional background is deeply rooted in managing large-scale, complex logistics ecosystems. Before taking on this new role, he served as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of DP World UAE, overseeing its vast operations across the entire Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This portfolio included managing ports, economic zones, marine services, and holistic trade solutions crucial for regional and international supply chains.
Key among his previous responsibilities was directly supervising operations at the Jebel Ali Port and the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). These entities are cornerstones of Dubai’s economic model, supporting an integrated logistics ecosystem that connects global markets. His leadership at DP World involved formulating and executing market strategies focused on expanding trade infrastructure, optimizing supply chain efficiency, and bolstering sustainability efforts within the sector.
A Career Dedicated to Global Trade
Having joined DP World in 2001, Damithan’s career trajectory has seen him hold several pivotal senior leadership roles. His contributions have been integral to the company’s evolution from a regional port operator into a globally recognized provider of intelligent logistics solutions. This long tenure provides him with an intimate understanding of the operational demands and strategic priorities necessary to keep Dubai at the forefront of global trade.
The Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation is instrumental in regulating and facilitating the flow of goods and services through Dubai. By appointing a figure with Damithan’s operational acumen and extensive regional network, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is ensuring that the corporation remains agile and responsive to the rapidly evolving requirements of international trade.
Strengthening Dubai’s Role as a Trade Hub
This leadership transition is expected to further enhance Dubai’s position as a critical global gateway. The effective coordination between ports, customs clearance procedures, and incentives offered by free zones is essential for attracting foreign direct investment and maintaining the UAE’s strategic economic diversification goals.
Going forward, industry watchers anticipate that Damithan will prioritize digital transformation and efficiency improvements within PCFC’s jurisdiction. His mandate will involve leveraging smart technologies to streamline customs processes, improve cargo handling speeds, and make Jebel Ali and its associated free zones even more attractive to multinational corporations navigating complex global supply chains. This strategic move aims to solidify Dubai’s reputation not just as a transit point, but as a central hub for resilient and sustainable global commerce.