Dubai Tycoon Replaced Following DOJ Release of Explicit Emails with Epstein
A prominent businessman from the United Arab Emirates, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, has been removed from his position as head of DP World, one of the world’s largest port operators. This decision follows revelations about his close relationship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, detailed in recently released documents by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Background on Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem has been a significant figure in global trade, serving as the chairman and CEO of DP World for over three decades. The company operates in more than 80 countries, establishing a substantial international presence. On Friday, the Dubai Government Media Office announced the appointment of a new chairman and group CEO for DP World, confirming the leadership change to various media outlets.
Epstein’s Affectionate Descriptions
In the released documents, Epstein referred to bin Sulayem with terms such as “funny,” “educated,” and “a master,” describing him as a “best and trusted friend.” Their correspondence illustrates a long-standing friendship marked by misogynistic remarks and sexually explicit content, alongside business discussions and a mention of an alleged torture video that has attracted scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers.
DOJ Unveils More Names
On Tuesday, the DOJ un-redacted additional names from the documents, including bin Sulayem’s. It is important to note that merely appearing in these files does not imply wrongdoing, and bin Sulayem has not faced any accusations or charges related to Epstein’s activities. Their communications extended over a decade, including exchanges after Epstein’s release from prison in 2009, where he had pleaded guilty to charges related to child prostitution.
Public Appearances and Connections
Bin Sulayem has been a visible figure in various high-profile events, often seen alongside Dubai’s ruler and even with former U.S. President Donald Trump. He participated in the World Economic Forum in Davos and has been involved in prestigious events like the DP World Tour Championship golf tournament in Dubai.
Following the release of the DOJ documents, at least two companies, including a British investment platform and Canada’s second-largest pension fund, reportedly halted future dealings with DP World. However, after bin Sulayem’s replacement, the Quebec-based investment firm La Caisse stated that DP World had taken appropriate measures and expressed intent to continue their partnership with the new leadership.
Diplomatic Relations and Business Ventures
The released documents also reveal that bin Sulayem and Epstein exchanged regional contacts and discussed visits to Epstein’s Caribbean island, where survivors have testified about being abused. Bin Sulayem informed Epstein about meetings with world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and former British Prime Minister David Cameron.
Epstein provided bin Sulayem with advice on how to approach the U.K. government for financing a major DP World project in London. In September 2009, bin Sulayem forwarded a letter to Epstein addressed to Peter Mandelson, then the British Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, requesting loan guarantees.
Connections to Israeli Officials
The correspondence indicates that bin Sulayem and Epstein were involved in efforts to foster relations between UAE and Israeli officials years before the normalization of ties under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords in 2020. Epstein appeared to initiate contact between bin Sulayem and then-Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak as early as 2012.
Barak has acknowledged his relationship with Epstein but maintains that he never witnessed any improper behavior. In March 2012, Epstein informed bin Sulayem that he was in Berlin with the Israeli defense minister and mentioned that Barak would like to meet both him and Sheikh Mohamed.
Further Correspondence and Controversies
In June 2013, Epstein pitched bin Sulayem’s DP World as a potential candidate to acquire Israeli ports amid a privatization campaign. He sent Barak a news article about Israel inviting international bids, asking if it was something for bin Sulayem. Barak responded that they would need to consider how to leverage this acquaintance once a sincere peace process began.
In subsequent years, bin Sulayem requested Epstein to arrange a meeting with Barak, which Epstein facilitated. The emails also reveal that bin Sulayem shared explicit content with Epstein, including graphic photos and sexual accounts.
Conclusion
The recent developments surrounding Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem’s departure from DP World highlight the complexities of his relationships and the implications of his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The ongoing scrutiny of these connections continues to unfold as more information becomes available.
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Published on 2026-02-13 12:00:00 • By Editorial Desk
