Pakistan Launches International Ferry to Gulf, Iran

In a big step forward for sea travel in the region, Pakistan has officially approved its first-ever international ferry service, which will allow passengers to travel to Iran and several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, and Oman, using modern, low-cost passenger ferries.

This new development is being seen as a historic milestone for Pakistan’s transportation system, especially as the country’s air and road travel options remain under pressure due to high demand and limited capacity.

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Ferry Service Approved After Years of Delay

For years, the idea of starting international ferry travel from Pakistan had been stuck. Ferry applications were first submitted back in 2017 and 2018, but progress was slow. Now, thanks to Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the dream has finally become a reality.

Minister Chaudhry fast-tracked the project and successfully issued the first international ferry licence to Sea Keeper, a UK-based company. This licence allows the company to run ferries between Karachi, Gwadar, Iran, and Gulf countries.

He said this move marks “a new history of maritime connectivity” for Pakistan and the entire region.

What the Ferry Service Will Offer

The international ferry service will begin its operations from two main ports in Pakistan:

• Karachi Port

• Gwadar Port

From these ports, modern and well-equipped passenger ferries will travel to nearby countries. The ferries will have comfortable seating, safety equipment, proper washrooms, and other basic amenities to make the journey smooth and convenient for passengers.

Authorities have already set up ferry terminals, and Karachi Port Trust (KPT) is preparing to hand over immigration and customs facilities so that passengers can be properly processed before boarding the ferries.

Who Will Benefit the Most?

This ferry service is not just for tourists. It will mainly benefit pilgrims, especially those who travel to Iraq and Iran for religious reasons. Every year, nearly one million Pakistani pilgrims travel for the Arbaeen pilgrimage, and many were recently left stranded when Iran suddenly closed its land borders.

Now, the ferry service will offer them a safe, reliable, and affordable sea route to Iran, which will help avoid such emergencies in the future.

It will also help overseas workers, especially those who work in Gulf countries, by giving them an economical way to travel between Pakistan and the Middle East.

Reducing Pressure on Roads and Airlines

Pakistan’s airports and highways are already very crowded, and the cost of flight tickets is too high for many travelers. This new ferry service gives people another option to travel safely and cheaply.

Not only is it cheaper than flights, but it’s also more environmentally friendly, helping the government build a more sustainable transport system.

The government hopes that ferry travel will reduce pressure on both the air and road infrastructure, which has been under a lot of stress for years.

Economic Benefits and Tourism Growth

Federal Minister Chaudhry also said the ferry service is not just about travel — it’s also about boosting Pakistan’s economy.

This move will:

• Support maritime trade

• Revive port activities

• Promote tourism

• Encourage regional cooperation with Gulf countries

He added, “We are not just creating a travel route; we are building a vital economic sea corridor. This will help position Gwadar as a central hub for maritime activity, and reduce transportation costs for both passengers and cargo.”

Role of Pakistan National Shipping Corporation

To make sure that ferry operations run smoothly and safely, the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) will be in charge of regulating the services. PNSC will check that ferry operators follow all technical rules and provide quality services to passengers.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has also announced that this is just the beginning. More ferry licences will be issued soon. Already, five private companies have applied, and a special committee is reviewing their proposals. This committee includes members from Defence, Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Port Authorities.

Connecting Pakistan with Gulf Nations

With this new ferry service, Pakistan is strengthening its ties with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The initial routes will cover Iran and UAE, and later Bahrain and Oman will be added.

This shows that Pakistan is trying to build better regional connections, not just for travel but also for trade and tourism.

How Will It Work?

Let’s break down how the service will operate:

• Passengers will arrive at Karachi or Gwadar port

• They will be processed through immigration and customs

• They will board modern ferries, fitted with basic facilities

• The ferry will travel to Iran or a Gulf country

• On arrival, passengers will be cleared again at the destination

The sailing time and ticket prices have not yet been officially announced, but the government has promised that this service will be budget-friendly and easier to access than air travel.

Building a “Blue Economy”

This ferry project is also a part of Pakistan’s “blue economy” strategy, which focuses on using the country’s sea resources in smart and sustainable ways.

By using the sea for travel and trade, Pakistan hopes to:

• Create more jobs

• Bring in foreign investment

• Promote eco-tourism

• Reduce dependence on land routes

What Happens Next?

The ferry service is expected to start soon, once all immigration, customs, and safety arrangements are completed. Ferry terminals are almost ready, and final preparations are being made to launch the service officially.

More companies will also be given licences in the coming months, meaning even more routes and options will be available to travelers in the future.

A New Chapter for Pakistan's Connectivity

In summary, Pakistan’s new ferry service is not just a travel upgrade — it is a big change in how the country connects with the world. It will help people travel easily, promote tourism, and open up trade between Pakistan and its neighbors across the sea.

With proper planning, safety, and good service, this ferry route could soon become one of the most popular and trusted travel options for Pakistanis who want to visit the Middle East.

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