Dubai-based logistics giant DP World has announced plans to develop a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Mombasa, Kenya, in partnership with GulfCap Africa. The project, known as the Mombasa Industrial Park, will cover 222 hectares and is strategically located less than 20 kilometers from the Port of Mombasa, East Africa’s busiest seaport. The first phase, spanning 40 hectares, is expected to kick off soon, with the signing ceremony scheduled for September 8, 2026, at State House Nairobi.

The SEZ aims to transform Mombasa into a regional hub for trade, manufacturing, and logistics. By offering modern infrastructure and streamlined services, the park will attract global investors and provide a competitive base for companies targeting markets in Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to project partners, more than 67 companies have already expressed interest in setting up operations within the park, signaling strong demand for industrial space in Kenya’s coastal region.

DP World has invested over $4 billion in African port and logistics infrastructure in the past five years, and the Mombasa SEZ forms part of its broader strategy to integrate ports, transport networks, and industrial zones into efficient trade corridors. For Kenya, the project represents a major boost to its industrialization agenda, promising thousands of jobs, increased exports, and reduced inland transport costs. It also aligns with President William Ruto’s push to expand private-sector-led infrastructure development without adding to sovereign debt.

Despite the optimism, challenges remain around execution, regulatory consistency, and long-term investor confidence. Industrial parks in Africa have historically faced occupancy struggles, but early commitments suggest the Mombasa SEZ could buck the trend. If successful, the project will not only strengthen Kenya’s position as a logistics gateway but also set a benchmark for regional industrial development across East Africa.