Riyadh : Dubai’s global ports and logistics operator DP World has announced a leadership overhaul following disclosures concerning past communications between its former group chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In a statement issued on Friday, February 12, the company confirmed the appointment of Essa Kazim as chairman of the board of directors and Yuvraj Narayan as CEO, according to the Dubai Media Office.
“The Board announces that His Excellency Essa Kazim has been appointed Chairman and Mr Yuvraj Narayan has been appointed Group CEO,” a statement from the company said.
The statement did not directly mention bin Sulayem but said the leadership changes are intended to support sustainable growth, strengthen global supply chains, and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading international hub for trade and logistics.
Bin Sulayem had led DP World since 2016 and was widely credited with expanding the Dubai-owned company’s global footprint across ports, terminals, and logistics operations.
The development follows the release of additional material linked to Epstein by the US Department of Justice.
According to documents disclosed in January 2026, bin Sulayem was identified as the individual referred to as “Sultan” in previously anonymised contact logs.
Media reports indicate that the two exchanged messages over more than a decade, including after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for prostitution.
The correspondence reportedly included personal discussions and attempts by Epstein to arrange introductions to prominent individuals.
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The revelations triggered concerns among investors and business partners. At least two government-linked investment funds are reported to have paused planned or ongoing transactions with DP World.
DP World has not commented directly. However, the company stated that its new leadership team will continue focusing on long term growth, operational resilience, and maintaining confidence among global stakeholders.