In a landmark move, the Government of Pakistan has approved its first international Pakistan ferry GCC Iran, paving the way for Pakistani citizens to travel to the UAE and Iran via sea routes. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has granted the license to UK-based company Sea Keepers, which will operate modern ferry vessels from Karachi and Gwadar ports.
Government officials issued the license after a high-level inter-ministerial meeting that included representatives from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and port authorities. This move supports Pakistan’s broader maritime vision to enhance regional connectivity, boost religious tourism, and strengthen the blue economy.
Facilitating Pilgrims and Tourists
The ferry service will transform travel for pilgrims heading to Iran and Iraq, many of whom currently rely on expensive or limited land and air options. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, highlighted that over 700,000 Pakistani pilgrims travel to the region annually. Even if 20% opt for ferry travel, this would account for 140,000 to 200,000 passengers each year.
The service also aims to provide an affordable and safe option for Pakistani workers and tourists visiting the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, particularly the UAE.
Modern Vessels & Future Expansion
Sea Keepers plans to operate modern, well-equipped ferries with all necessary facilities for passenger comfort and safety. Although exact ticket fares have not yet been finalized, the ministry has denied speculation about fixed pricing, stating that details will be announced in due course.
Minister Chaudhry also emphasized the need to streamline the licensing process, reducing approval time from six months to just one. He suggested integrating the ferry licensing with the Pakistan Single Window system and offering flexible financial models to attract more private operators.
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A Step Toward Maritime Connectivity
This initiative marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to revamp its maritime sector. By improving connectivity with neighboring countries via sea, Pakistan is not only facilitating easier travel for its citizens but also laying the groundwork for future economic and tourism-related growth across the region.
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