Full Breakdown
Dubai Tycoon Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem's Long-Standing Ties with Jeffrey Epstein
2/11/2026, 6:05:14 AM
Exchange of Explicit Communications
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the chairman and CEO of DP World, engaged in a series of crude and sexually explicit communications with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein over a span of more than a decade. These exchanges, which included graphic descriptions of sexual encounters and nude images, were revealed in recently released Justice Department records. Notably, bin Sulayem boasted about a sexual encounter with a foreign exchange student in a September 2015 email, stating, “She got engaged but now she back with me … The best sex I ever had amazing body.”
The correspondence persisted even after Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Bin Sulayem's emails frequently referenced visits to Epstein's private Caribbean island, Little St. James, which has been implicated in sex trafficking allegations. Images obtained by federal investigators reportedly show bin Sulayem on the island. Furthermore, bin Sulayem played a significant role in Epstein's acquisition of both Great St. James and Little St. James islands, with a Virgin Islands-registered company listing bin Sulayem as its beneficial owner purchasing Great St. James in 2016 after Epstein was barred from the transaction due to his criminal record.
Background on Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem is a prominent figure in the United Arab Emirates, credited with transforming Dubai into a global trade and logistics hub. He oversees key economic sectors, including ports, logistics, and real estate, through his leadership at DP World, which operates the Jebel Ali Port and has been involved in landmark projects like the Palm Islands. His influence extends across various industries, bolstered by state-backed development initiatives.
Official Statements & Responses
The recent disclosures have prompted inquiries into bin Sulayem's relationship with Epstein, particularly given the nature of their communications. DP World has not publicly commented on the revelations, and bin Sulayem did not respond to requests for comment from Bloomberg. The Justice Department's release of millions of pages of documents related to Epstein has shed light on his connections with various powerful individuals in business and politics, raising questions about the implications of these relationships.
Criticism & Opposition
The revelations have drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly regarding the ethical implications of bin Sulayem's long-term association with Epstein, especially after the latter's conviction. Critics argue that such relationships reflect poorly on bin Sulayem's character and raise concerns about accountability among influential figures in the UAE.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the documents reveal extensive communication between bin Sulayem and Epstein, the full extent of their interactions and the implications of these exchanges remain unclear. There is a lack of detailed information regarding the nature of bin Sulayem's involvement in Epstein's business dealings and the potential impact on his reputation and DP World's operations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “She got engaged but now she back with me … The best sex I ever had amazing body.” — Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, in an email to Jeffrey Epstein.
