Ferry Service from Pakistan to Iran and GCC Countries Launched for the 1st Time
Ferry Service from Pakistan to Iran and GCC Countries
Pakistanis now will to be able to travelers’ other countries like Dubai, Iran through Ferry Services. This is very good opportunity for Travellers, educators, earners, nationwide and Pakistani.1
In a historic move that promises to reshape regional travel and trade, Pakistan has officially approved its first-ever international ferry service, connecting its ports with Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s maritime history.
Approved on Monday, the license was granted to Sea Keepers, a global ferry operator that now has the authority to operate routes from Pakistan to regional destinations like Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and beyond. The launch reflects the federal government’s broader push to modernize Pakistan’s transport infrastructure, support regional connectivity, and strengthen the blue economy.
A Major Step in National Maritime Policy
The approval followed a high-level meeting of the Licensing Committee. The committee included representatives from the ministries of Maritime Affairs, Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Interior, as well as officials from the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation and Port and Shipping Authorities.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, hailed this development as a key achievement aligned with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision and Pakistan’s National Maritime Policy. He emphasized that this ferry service will not only improve transportation options but also promote religious tourism, trade, and people-to-people contact in the region.
“This is not just about launching a ferry. It’s about opening sea lanes that will economically empower our citizens, especially religious pilgrims and overseas workers,” said the Minister.
A Game-Changer for Religious Tourism and Overseas Pakistanis
The new ferry routes are expected to benefit hundreds of thousands of travelers every year, particularly pilgrims heading to Iran and Iraq for religious purposes. Currently, many Pakistanis rely on expensive flights or long land journeys through tough terrain to reach these holy sites.
This ferry service provides a safer, cheaper, and more convenient alternative, especially for elderly pilgrims and those traveling in groups.
In addition, Pakistani workers and tourists traveling to GCC countries will now have a cost-effective sea travel option that can significantly reduce the burden of airfare. For many families, this could mean saving thousands of rupees while enjoying a more comfortable journey with onboard facilities.
Karachi and Gwadar Set as Departure Ports
The ferry operations will begin from two of Pakistan’s strategic ports: Karachi and Gwadar. These ports were chosen due to their existing infrastructure and proximity to international shipping lanes.
The Sea Keepers fleet will consist of modern vessels equipped with essential amenities, including comfortable seating, rest areas, food services, and safety features. Authorities say this will ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for passengers.
The initial phase will focus on key destinations such as Bandar Abbas in Iran and select ports in the UAE and Oman. Depending on demand and diplomatic cooperation, more routes and port calls will be added.
Enhancing Trade and Connectivity
This ferry service is also a key component of Pakistan’s strategy to enhance trade and logistics in the maritime sector. By reducing reliance on air and land transport, the country hopes to encourage greater use of sea routes for both passenger and cargo movement.
According to maritime experts, short sea shipping like this can significantly boost regional trade, especially among countries with close cultural, religious, and economic ties. The ferry service will also help decongest land borders and promote eco-friendly transport alternatives.
Strengthening the Blue Economy
Pakistan’s maritime sector has long been underutilized, despite the country’s strategic location along the Arabian Sea. The launch of the ferry service is being seen as a step toward developing a vibrant blue economy, which includes shipping, port logistics, fishing, tourism, and marine resource management.
Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry reiterated that the move is not just about transportation but about laying the groundwork for economic transformation through the sea.
“This ferry service aligns with our long-term vision of sustainable maritime growth. It will boost regional trade, promote tourism, and support the government’s efforts to provide affordable transportation options for our citizens,” he said.
Future Plans and Expansion
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has indicated that expansion plans are already in the pipeline. As part of bilateral agreements, Pakistan hopes to establish sea links with additional GCC countries such as Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait.
Private sector participation will also be encouraged to make the service commercially viable and competitive. Authorities plan to ensure the highest safety and service standards, taking cues from international ferry operators in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Public Response and Next Steps
The announcement has generated widespread excitement among religious groups, expat communities, and travel agencies across Pakistan. Many believe that this service will finally bridge a long-standing gap in sea connectivity, especially for budget-conscious travelers.
The government has advised passengers to stay tuned for official schedules, ticket prices, and guidelines, which will be released by Sea Keepers and the relevant port authorities in the coming weeks.
Final Thoughts
The launch of the ferry service from Pakistan to Iran and GCC countries is a historic step that reflects Pakistan’s growing commitment to regional integration, economic development, and citizen welfare. It has the potential to not only enhance travel options but also establish Pakistan as a vital maritime hub in South Asia.
As the first ferry sets sail from Karachi or Gwadar in the coming months, it will carry with it the hopes of millions whether pilgrims, workers, or tourists seeking better, safer, and more affordable ways to travel across the region.
In the final words Pakistani peoples got the best opportunity to travel in Dubai and Iran via Ferry Busses. A great news about Pakistani peoples for getting this opportunity. This is very comfortable and help us for peoples.
