Logistic Giant DP World's Chief Steps Down Over Jeffrey Epstein Ties

Last Updated:February 13, 2026, 18:26 IST

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem resigned as DP World chair and CEO after links to Jeffrey Epstein surfaced. Essa Kazim and Yuvraj Narayan take over.

The head of Dubai-based global logistics giant DP World has stepped down following mounting pressure over his past connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem resigned from his roles as chair and chief executive after messages between him and Epstein were made public as part of documents released by the US Department of Justice. The correspondence reportedly included references to personal matters, intensifying scrutiny on the state-backed company.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Dubai government announced leadership changes without directly referring to Sulayem. Essa Kazim has been appointed chair of the board, while Yuvraj Narayan will take over as chief executive officer.

The controversy has had business consequences. Two major international partners, Canada’s La Caisse pension fund and the UK’s development finance institution British International Investment (BII) said they would suspend new deals with DP World. BII stated it would not proceed with additional investments until appropriate actions were taken by the company.

DP World, which ultimately falls under the oversight of Dubai’s ruling family, had previously declined to comment on the disclosures regarding Sulayem’s relationship with Epstein. However, individuals familiar with the company suggested that the risk of losing key international partners likely prompted swift action.

Sulayem had been one of Dubai’s most prominent business leaders, overseeing DP World’s transformation over nearly four decades. Under his leadership, the company grew from operating Jebel Ali port into one of the world’s largest logistics and port management groups, a trajectory that mirrored Dubai’s own rapid rise as a global trade and finance hub.

Today, DP World operates six ports in Canada and manages major assets such as the London Gateway logistics hub, alongside infrastructure investments spanning Asia, Europe and Latin America.

The company has also invested heavily in global brand visibility, sponsoring international sporting events including the European Tour in golf, as well as ventures in cricket and Formula 1.

In 2022, DP World faced backlash in the UK after its subsidiary P&O Ferries dismissed 800 employees and replaced them with lower-cost agency workers.

The newly appointed chair, Essa Kazim, brings experience in financial and economic governance. He currently serves as chair of Borse Dubai and governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre. Yuvraj Narayan, who succeeds Sulayem as CEO, previously served as the company’s chief financial officer and deputy leader.

The leadership reshuffle comes as DP World seeks to stabilise relations with international partners and protect its global standing.

News world Logistic Giant DP World's Chief Steps Down Over Jeffrey Epstein Ties

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