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Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs has issued its first-ever international ferry service licence, paving the way for a new era of sea connectivity between Pakistan, Iran, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The landmark approval allows an international ferry operator to launch routes from Karachi and Gwadar to key regional ports.
The move follows a high-level meeting involving officials from the maritime, defence, foreign affairs, and interior ministries, as well as port authorities and the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry hailed the development as a historic milestone, aligned with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision and Pakistan’s National Maritime Policy.
He emphasized that the service would promote regional trade, religious tourism, and economic growth.
The ferry service is expected to benefit hundreds of thousands annually especially pilgrims (zaireen) traveling to Iran and Iraq, as well as workers and tourists heading to GCC nations.
It also offers a cost-effective alternative to air travel for the Pakistani diaspora.
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Initial operations will involve modern vessels equipped with essential passenger amenities, ensuring safe and affordable travel. Route expansion is planned based on demand and bilateral agreements.
Officials believe this step will relieve pressure on overland pilgrim routes especially amid recent travel restrictions for Arbaeen and will help develop Pakistan’s blue economy, enhance trade logistics, and promote maritime tourism.
Last month, five private firms submitted proposals for Gwadar–GCC ferry routes, signaling strong private sector interest.
