Dubai's DP World replaces chair amid Epstein revelations
Deutsche Welle
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Dubai's logistics giant DP World has appointed a new chairman, Essa Kazim, following the revelation that Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the outgoing chair, had maintained regular correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein. The emails, which were part of Epstein’s files, included discussions about topics like pornography and escorts, raising questions about the nature of their relationship. While being mentioned in the Epstein files does not necessarily imply wrongdoing, the content of the communications has sparked concern among business partners.
DP World's decision to replace bin Sulayem came after several institutions, including the British Investment Institution (BII) and Canadian firm La Caisse, suspended their investments with DP World. However, these institutions expressed willingness to resume partnerships following the leadership change. The DOJ’s release of unredacted files revealed that bin Sulayem was mentioned in an email exchange involving a "torture video," leading US lawmakers to call for transparency and accountability.
The fallout from the Epstein revelations has highlighted the importance of ethical standards in global business operations. DP World, which operates major ports worldwide, including Jebel Ali in Dubai, has faced scrutiny over its ties to bin Sulayem. The company’s swift leadership change aimed to distance itself from the controversy and reassure stakeholders about its commitment to integrity.
This situation underscores the broader implications of Epstein’s connections with influential figures in international business and politics. It raises questions about transparency and accountability in global trade and finance, particularly as companies navigate complex ethical landscapes. For readers interested in global politics and business ethics, this story highlights the delicate balance between power, influence, and reputation in the modern world.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/14/2026