DUBAI / INTERNATIONAL – In a dramatic development reverberating across global business and political networks, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the long-time chairman and chief executive of Dubai’s logistics giant DP World, has resigned following the public release of email correspondence tying him to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The decision marks a stunning fall for one of the Middle East’s most influential business leaders – a figure who helped transform DP World into a linchpin of Dubai’s economy and one of the world’s largest port operators.
‘Torture Video’ Email Triggers Leadership Shake-Up
The resignation comes after new documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice – part of the ongoing Epstein files disclosure – showed an email from Epstein to bin Sulayem that included the unsettling line: “I loved the torture video.”
While the full context of the exchange remains unclear, U.S. lawmakers publicly identified bin Sulayem as the recipient of that message after his name had initially been redacted.
The exchange is part of a larger archive of communications spanning years, in which Epstein described bin Sulayem as “one of my most trusted friends,” with correspondence touching on personal and business matters.
DP World’s Swift Transition
DP World – owned by the Dubai government and a critical engine of the emirate’s trade, logistics, and economic expansion – moved quickly to install new leadership. Essa Kazim has been appointed chairman of the board, while former deputy CEO Yuvraj Narayan will serve as the company’s new CEO.
The official statement issued by the Government of Dubai’s media office did not directly mention bin Sulayem, but the leadership overhaul signals a bid to reassure global partners and markets.
International Backlash and Business Fallout
News of the email quickly sparked concern among DP World’s institutional partners. Major investors such as La Caisse – Quebec’s pension fund – and British International Investment temporarily paused new commitments in projects involving DP World, underscoring the reputational risks tied to the emerging revelations.
DP World’s expansive portfolio includes ports across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia – placing it at the heart of global supply chains. The leadership change comes amid heightened scrutiny from regulators, stakeholders, and human rights observers watching the broader Epstein disclosures.
No Criminal Charges – Yet
It’s critical to note that bin Sulayem has not been charged with any crime in relation to the Epstein materials, and the precise nature of the “torture video” referenced in the emails has not been publicly clarified.
However, the political and commercial fallout has already reshaped one of the Gulf’s most significant corporate leaders – a figure whose influence once extended across global commerce, philanthropic partnerships, and elite networks from the Middle East to the West.
