DP World Group announced the appointment of Engineer Fouad Chehab Dandan as Vice President and Regional Director for Lebanon.
"In this role, he will establish DP World's first representative office in Lebanon, scheduled to open by December 2025, and will also lead efforts to strengthen DP World's presence and partnerships in Lebanon and the wider Levant," it said in a statement.
The statement indicated that "Engineer Fouad Chehab Dandan has over 30 years of extensive global experience in various fields, including communications, business development, and diplomatic relations. He has served as Lebanon's Ambassador to the UAE since 2017, and has previously held senior executive positions in technology and business companies in the Middle East and Africa.
Engineer Fouad Chehab Dandan holds a Master's degree in Business Administration from Madonna University in Michigan, USA, and a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from Lawrence Technological University in Michigan, USA."
The statement added: "Lebanon has always played a pivotal role in regional and global trade, thanks to its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea. DP World's presence will contribute to strengthening trade ties between the UAE and Lebanon and embodies the company's commitment to supporting trade in the Levant.
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC, said: “Fouad’s appointment is a significant step in our Levant strategy. His leadership skills, private sector experience, and diplomatic expertise will be pivotal in strengthening our presence in Lebanon and seizing opportunities to enhance trade resilience in the region.”
For his part, Dandan said: "I am honored to join DP World at this vital stage of growth. Our top priority now is establishing our representative office in Lebanon and engaging closely with partners in the government and industry sectors to identify practical solutions to enhance trade, reduce supply chain bottlenecks, and provide additional support opportunities for Lebanese exporters and importers."
The statement continued: “Trade relations between the UAE and Lebanon continue to flourish, with trade volume between Dubai and Lebanon reaching 154,000 metric tons, with a total value exceeding USD 3 billion in 2024. Jebel Ali Port and Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) continue to serve as a major gateway for this trade, reinforcing Dubai’s importance as a key logistics hub connecting Lebanon to global markets. Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is home to more than 160 Lebanese companies operating in various vital sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and automotive. Lebanese companies export fruits, vegetables, nuts, beverages, and personal care products to global markets via Dubai.”
