Great news for Pakistani pilgrims and expat workers! Pakistan has just approved its first ever international ferry service that will connect our country with Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council countries. This new travel option will make your journey to Gulf countries much easier and cheaper than before.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has granted the historic license to Sea Keepers Private Limited after seven years of waiting. This ferry service will start from Karachi and Gwadar ports, offering direct sea routes to Iran with future plans to expand to UAE, Bahrain, and Oman.
New Ferry Service Provides Cheaper Travel Options
The Pakistan to Gulf countries ferry service aims to solve the expensive flight problem that many Pakistani travelers face today. Currently, air travel is the only option for most people wanting to visit Gulf states for work or religious purposes.
This new sea route will be especially helpful for pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq for religious events like Arbaeen. Thousands of Pakistani pilgrims make this journey every year, and now they will have an affordable alternative to expensive flights.
The ferry service will operate modern vessels with proper safety measures and comfortable facilities for passengers. It will connect Pakistan with multiple destinations across the Gulf region.
Ferry Routes and Schedule Details
Here are the main details about Pakistan’s new ferry services to Gulf countries:
| Route Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting Ports | Karachi and Gwadar |
| First Destination | Iran |
| Future Routes | UAE, Bahrain, Oman |
| Operator Company | Sea Keepers Private Limited |
| Service Type | International passenger ferry |
| Target Passengers | Pilgrims, expat workers, tourists |
The initial operations will begin from both major Pakistani ports. Karachi being the largest port will handle most traffic, while Gwadar port will serve as an additional departure point especially for Balochistan residents.
Ferry Service License Granted to Sea Keepers
The licensing process took seven years to complete, showing how carefully the government reviewed this important project. Sea Keepers Private Limited, a UK based company, applied for this ferry service license way back in 2018.
The approval came after a high level meeting of the licensing committee. Officials from maritime affairs, defense, and other key departments participated in the final decision making process.
This ferry service launch forms part of Pakistan’s National Maritime Policy to boost regional connectivity and develop the maritime sector. The government expects hundreds of thousands of passengers will use this service annually.
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Sea Route to Iraq and GCC Countries Benefits
The new ferry service offers several advantages over current travel methods. First, it will be much cheaper than airline tickets to Gulf countries. Many Pakistani workers and pilgrims struggle with high flight costs.
Second, the ferry service will reduce pressure on overland routes that are often difficult and time consuming. The sea journey will be more comfortable and reliable than long road trips through multiple countries.
Third, this service opens up tourism potential between Pakistan and Gulf nations. More people will be able to afford visits to these countries for business, tourism, and family visits.
Regional Connectivity and Religious Tourism Boost
Pakistan’s ferry service to Gulf countries will strengthen regional ties and boost religious tourism significantly. The service particularly targets pilgrims traveling to holy sites in Iran and Iraq.
During major religious events, thousands of Pakistani Shia Muslims travel to Iraq for Arbaeen pilgrimage. The current land routes through Iran are often crowded and challenging, while flights are expensive for many pilgrims.
The ferry service will provide a middle ground option that is both affordable and comfortable. This will make religious travel accessible to more Pakistani Muslims who want to visit holy shrines.
Eligibility Criteria for Ferry Travel
The ferry service will be open to all Pakistani citizens with valid passports and appropriate visas for destination countries. Passengers will need to complete standard immigration and customs procedures at Pakistani ports before departure.
Age restrictions and health requirements will follow international maritime travel standards. Pregnant women, elderly passengers, and those with medical conditions should consult with ferry operators about special arrangements.
Valid travel documents including passport, visa, and any required health certificates must be presented during booking and boarding. The ferry company will provide detailed eligibility guidelines before service launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will ferry tickets cost from Pakistan to Gulf countries?
The exact ferry ticket prices have not been announced yet by Sea Keepers or the government. However, officials promise the fares will be significantly cheaper than current flight prices to Gulf destinations. Estimates suggest tickets could cost between Rs 25,000 to Rs 35,000, but these are not confirmed.
When will the ferry service actually start operating?
The ferry service launch date has not been officially announced by Sea Keepers Private Limited. The company has received the license and is now working on finalizing operational details, vessel arrangements, and route schedules. Updates will be shared through official channels once everything is ready.
Which Gulf countries will be connected by this ferry service?
Initially, the ferry service will connect Pakistan with Iran, providing onward connections to Iraq for pilgrims. Future expansion plans include direct routes to UAE, Bahrain, and Oman. The service aims to cover most GCC countries gradually as operations establish successfully.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s new ferry services to Gulf countries represent a major breakthrough for affordable international travel. This historic ferry service license will benefit thousands of Pakistani pilgrims, expat workers, and tourists who need cost effective travel options.
The sea routes from Karachi and Gwadar will make Gulf countries more accessible to average Pakistani families. As Sea Keepers prepares to launch operations, keep watching for official announcements about schedules and ticket prices.
This ferry service shows Pakistan’s commitment to improving regional connectivity and supporting its citizens’ travel needs. Whether you are planning religious pilgrimage or seeking work opportunities in Gulf states, this new travel option will soon provide an affordable alternative to expensive flights.