Rising tensions between the United States and Iran have slowed down the launch of the planned ferry service between Pakistan and Iran.
Pakistan has recently issued its first-ever licence for international ferry services. This licence allows passenger ferry operations between Pakistan and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries such as Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, as well as Iran. The new licensing system is meant to provide clear rules, encourage private companies to invest, and improve maritime trade and regional connectivity.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs approved the first ferry licence for an international company called Sea Keepers. This licence allows the company to operate ferry routes between Pakistan, Iran and GCC countries. According to sources, the company had planned to offer return tickets between Gwadar and Iran at a cost of Rs50,000 and had arranged a ferry vessel with a capacity of 250 passengers.
However, due to the current Iran-US tensions, the launch of the Pakistan-Iran ferry service has been delayed. Sources said the operator is now planning to start a ferry service between Karachi and Gwadar instead, keeping the regional situation in mind. The licence was issued after a delay of nearly five years, during which the company’s application moved between different government departments. A passenger terminal has also been established at Gwadar Port to support ferry operations.
The move follows strong interest from Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, who acted on the directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The aim is to increase commercial activity at Gwadar Port. The minister believes ferry services will reduce pressure on land routes and offer a cheaper travel option than air travel for overseas Pakistanis and religious pilgrims.
Initially, ferry services were planned from Karachi and Gwadar using modern vessels equipped with basic facilities to ensure safe and affordable travel. More routes and port stops are expected to be added later, depending on demand and agreements with other countries.
Pakistan has also proposed joint shipbuilding projects with Turkiye and discussed the possibility of launching ferry services. Gwadar Port is seen as having strong potential for blue economy projects, where Turkish investors could invest in port-related industries. In addition, Pakistan has proposed starting a ferry service with Oman, and the federal cabinet has already approved passenger and cargo movement plans to strengthen trade, tourism and maritime links.
Pakistan believes that a direct ferry route between Gwadar and Oman would bring major economic benefits, including higher trade volumes, increased investment and transit revenue. Gwadar’s annual export earnings are expected to cross $850 million, mainly from fisheries and date exports, while Oman would gain access to a faster route to Central Asian markets.
The proposed Pakistan-Oman tourism corridor is also seen as a strong growth opportunity due to cultural ties, scenic coastlines and short sea travel distances. The maritime minister said this corridor could become one of the fastest-growing tourism routes in the region, supporting hotels, transport and leisure industries in both countries. Overall, the ferry service is viewed as a major step toward strengthening regional cooperation, trade, tourism and economic integration.
