It has been officially announced that a new ferry service will connect Pakistan with Iran and the Gulf countries. The goal of the project is to give travelers, especially overseas workers, pilgrims, and tourists, a safer, cheaper, and easier way to get around.
The government has granted its first international ferry license to Sea Keeper, a UK-based company. The ferry service will operate under Pakistan’s National Maritime Policy and will initially connect Karachi and Gwadar ports with destinations in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region.
“This is a big step toward affordable regional connectivity,” said Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. “Our goal is to ease travel for the common man while strengthening Pakistan’s position in the maritime sector.”
Five private companies have shown interest in running more ferry routes from Gwadar so far. The government is looking over their suggestions to make sure they are safe, cheap, and effective.
Modern vessels will be used, and terminals at Karachi and Gwadar are being upgraded with immigration and customs facilities. The ferry service will help reduce dependency on air travel and make cross-border movement more budget-friendly.
Ticket prices have not been finalized yet. Officials have warned the public against believing unconfirmed fare claims circulating online.
Why the Ferry Service Matters
The ferry service’s opening is a big step toward making regional travel more affordable and easier to get to. It gives overseas workers and religious pilgrims who often travel between Pakistan and the Gulf a cheap way to get there. In addition to personal travel, the program is expected to increase tourism, improve trade ties, and help Pakistan’s blue economy grow. It also makes Gwadar an important maritime hub in the area. Most importantly, the move helps Pakistan’s long-term goal of stronger regional integration and better connections with its Gulf neighbors.
What Happens Next for the Ferry Service
The selected operators will finalize their plans, and routes to the UAE, Oman, and Bahrain are expected soon. Launch dates and official fare details will follow.
This new ferry service is a new way for people to get around in the region. It makes travel more accessible, affordable, and efficient than ever before.
