Pressure mounts on Dubai’s DP World amid Epstein document revelations

Thursday 12 February 2026 - 12:15

By: Sahili Aya

Pressure mounts on Dubai’s DP World amid Epstein document revelations

Dubai-based port operator DP World faces increasing scrutiny after recent documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein raised questions about the company’s CEO, Sultan Ahmad ben Sulayem. Following the release of the records late January, both the British International Investment (BII) and Canada’s second-largest pension fund suspended new investments in the global logistics firm.

The documents, part of millions made public by the US Department of Justice, indicate interactions between Ben Sulayem and Epstein spanning over a decade, including business communications and references to visits to Epstein’s private island. While the records do not imply any illegal activity, the disclosure has prompted renewed attention from US lawmakers.

A BII spokesperson said the agency was “shocked by the allegations” and would pause any new investment until DP World addressed the concerns. Similarly, Canada’s La Caisse announced it would halt capital allocations with the company until clarifications are provided.

DP World, one of the world’s leading port operators, handles roughly 10% of global trade with operations in countries such as Canada, India, Peru, and Angola. The company also maintains high-profile sponsorships in Formula 1, golf, and cricket, raising its public visibility.

Ben Sulayem, widely regarded as one of Dubai’s most influential businessmen, has overseen DP World’s international expansion. He also holds leadership positions in Dubai’s Chamber of Commerce and related free zone authorities and contributed to major projects such as Nakheel and the DMCC commodity exchange.

DP World has declined to comment, and Ben Sulayem has not responded to requests for statements. The company faces mounting pressure to clarify the situation and reassure investors and partners worldwide.