New Direct Maritime Line Connects Iraq and UAE, Reducing Shipping Time to 36 Hours

The General Company for Iraqi Ports has announced the inauguration of a direct international maritime line connecting Rashid Port in the United Arab Emirates with Umm Qasr Port in Iraq. According to an official statement, the new route is designed to reduce maritime transit time to about 36 hours and enhance the efficiency of cargo transportation between the two countries.

The company reported the arrival of the first vessel from Rashid Port, carrying roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) transport vehicles, marking the operational launch of the new service. This move is expected to stimulate trade flows and offer a direct, rapid shipping solution.

Abd Al-Sada Khalaf, Deputy Director General for Technical Affairs at the General Company for Iraqi Ports, stated that the line offers a record transit time not exceeding 36 hours and a capacity of up to 145 accompanied trailers per voyage, allowing drivers to travel with their vehicles and reducing reliance on long-distance land transport.

He added that the service not only benefits the Iraqi market, but also opens a logistical corridor connecting Iraq with neighboring countries, including Jordan, Syria, and Turkey, via land transport networks. This enhances Iraq's role as a regional transit hub and improves supply chain efficiency in the area.

The company confirmed that operational and technical arrangements at Umm Qasr Port have been completed to ensure smooth handling of Ro-Ro shipments. The new line is set to support bilateral trade between Iraq and the UAE, lower costs, and improve delivery times.

The launch of this line is part of a broader strategy to adopt more efficient and sustainable maritime transport solutions, contributing to emission reductions compared to traditional transport methods, while the company continues to develop infrastructure and expand marine services.