DP World removes CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem over Jeffrey Epstein references

DP World Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem Jeffrey Epstein

Credit: U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)

DP World has dismissed its chairman and chief executive Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem after documents released by the US Department of Justice cited his association with Jeffrey Epstein, The Maritime Telegraph claims. The move signals a sharp leadership change at the Dubai-headquartered ports and logistics group.

The DOJ material includes references in which Epstein allegedly called Sulayem a close and trusted friend. The disclosure prompted financial institutions in Canada and the United Kingdom to freeze upcoming projects and partnerships with DP World while conducting internal reviews.

The company swiftly appointed Essa Kazim as chairman and Yuvraj Narayan as group chief executive, ending Sulayem’s long run at the helm. He had led the operator for nearly two decades and oversaw its international expansion across key maritime trade routes.

The leadership overhaul places DP World under intensified scrutiny as investors and industry stakeholders evaluate governance standards, reputational exposure and the potential impact on global port and logistics operations.

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