Global logistics and transport conglomerate DP World has removed its chairman from his position in the wake of a major scandal involving published communications with the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The Dubai-based firm, which is the owner of the prominent UK ferry operator P&O Ferries, confirmed the dramatic leadership change on Friday 13th February 2026.
Leadership Shakeup Following Epstein Revelations
The company announced that Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem has been replaced as chairman of the state-backed business. While the official statement did not directly name him, it confirmed that Essa Kazim will now assume the role of DP World's chairman. This decisive action follows intense external pressure on the company after the United States justice department released fresh files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Content of the Controversial Messages
The released emails included messages from Sulayem that contained descriptions of women, with specific details noted about their age, weight, height, and bra size. Jeffrey Epstein died in a jail cell in 2019 while facing charges of sex trafficking, making any association with him highly damaging for corporate reputations.
The fallout from these revelations was significant, with some of DP World's most important international partners reportedly threatening to sever future collaborations. Notably, the British International Investment development finance operation was among those reconsidering its relationship with the logistics giant as a direct consequence of the scandal.
New Leadership Appointments Announced
In addition to the chairman change, DP World has appointed Yuvraj Narayan as the new group chief executive officer to help steer the company forward. The firm emphasized in its Friday announcement that these new appointments are designed to support its strategy for sustainable growth while reinforcing its crucial role in strengthening global supply chains.
The statement further highlighted that the leadership changes would help maintain Dubai's position as a leading international hub for trade and logistics operations worldwide.
Historical Controversy with P&O Ferries
This is not the first time DP World has faced significant criticism in the United Kingdom. Back in 2022, the company's P&O Ferries subsidiary provoked outrage from British members of parliament and trade unions when it abruptly dismissed 800 staff members, replacing them with cheaper agency workers in a controversial cost-cutting move.
DP World operates substantial container port facilities in both London and Southampton, giving it significant presence in UK logistics infrastructure alongside its ferry operations. The company's latest leadership crisis comes at a sensitive time for global supply chains and international business partnerships.
