Pakistan Issues License for Ferry Service to Iran and Gulf Countries

ISLAMABAD – 6 August 2025: In a landmark move aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic cooperation, Pakistan has officially issued a license to operate a ferry service connecting the country to Iran and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations.

The announcement marks a significant development in Pakistan’s maritime and tourism sectors, offering an alternative travel and trade route between Pakistan and the Middle East.

Ferry Service to Boost Trade, Travel and Religious Tourism

The license has been granted to a private company, which had first submitted its application seven years ago. The ferry service is expected to play a vital role in promoting trade, religious tourism, labour movement, and people-to-people contact between Pakistan and key regional partners.

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Speaking to media, Mohammad Omar, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the licensed company, confirmed that the first phase of the project will see ferries operating between Pakistan and Iran. He added that the service will later be expanded to other GCC and Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“This ferry service will not only facilitate travel for ordinary citizens but also open new doors for business collaboration and religious pilgrimages,” Omar said.

Government Welcomes Launch of Maritime Connectivity

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, welcomed the issuance of the license and described it as a “revolutionary step” for Pakistan’s trade and travel infrastructure.

“Work is progressing on multiple ferry routes from Iran and GCC countries. The Pakistan-Iraq ferry route will open a new chapter in bilateral relations and enhance trade, logistics, and cultural exchange,” he stated.

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Affordable Alternative to Air and Land Travel

According to officials, the ferry service will offer a low-cost, safe, and reliable travel option for tourists, workers, traders, and religious pilgrims, easing the burden on existing air and land routes. The initiative also aligns with the government’s broader vision of improving maritime infrastructure and boosting tourism in the region.

Authorities believe that the ferry service could also encourage cross-border trade, particularly in cargo transport, while reducing the travel time and cost for pilgrims heading to Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia for religious observances such as Ziyarat and Umrah.

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Key Benefits of Pakistan’s Ferry Service Launch:

• Increased regional connectivity with Iran and GCC countries
• Boost to tourism, religious travel, and cross-border trade
• Alternative travel route for workers and cargo transport
• Reduced pressure on air and land travel networks
• New business and investment opportunities in maritime logistics

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