Dubai-based port operator DP World on Friday announced new leadership, replacing long-time chief Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem after documents linked to the Epstein files revealed frequent correspondence between him and the convicted sex offender.
"DP World announced the appointment of His Excellency Essa Kazim as Chairman of its Board of Directors and the appointment of Yuvraj Narayan as Group Chief Executive Officer," the group said in a statement published by the Dubai media office.
The statement did not reference Sulayem.
Previously serving as group chairman and chief executive officer of DP World, one of the world’s largest port operators, Sulayem was described by Jeffrey Epstein as one of his “most trusted friends.”
He is cited more than 9,400 times in documents recently released by the US Department of Justice, which detail what they describe as close ties between the two men.
According to the records, they maintained regular correspondence from 2009 to 2018, exchanging messages on personal matters, meetings, introductions and business opportunities.
At the time, Epstein portrayed the wealthy Emirati businessman as being close to Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.
The correspondence also indicates that Sulayem visited Epstein at his residence in the United States on multiple occasions, including trips to his private island.
DP World is one of the world’s largest port operators, responsible for a significant share of global container traffic.
Epstein, who died in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, has long been known for cultivating ties with powerful individuals across sectors. The newly released files underscore that even after his conviction, Epstein continued to connect with influential figures.
For example, other reporting on the 2026 release shows Epstein’s role in facilitating meetings between business leaders and politicians, including those linked to UAE-Israel diplomatic backchannels and investment networks.
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