(MENAFN- Gulf Times) A regular passenger maritime link connecting Qatar and Bahrain was officially inaugurated yesterday (November 6) at Al-Ruwais Port, signaling the start of a new phase of constructive bilateral co-operation in maritime transport.

The event was led by Qatar's Minister of Transport HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Thani and Bahrain's Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications HE Dr Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed al-Khalifa, along with other government and port officials between the two countries.

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This new service establishes a maritime connection between Qatar's Al-Ruwais Port and Bahrain's Saada Port, covering a sea distance of around 35 nautical miles (about 65kms).

In a press statement, Sheikh Mohammed said:“This project represents a pioneering strategic step that reflects the depth of fraternal ties between the two brotherly countries, while further strengthening co-operation and integration among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.

“The project also reflects Qatar's keenness to establish and enhance developmental and strategic partnerships with the Kingdom of Bahrain in the fields of transportation, logistics, and related services, in a way that serves mutual interests and promotes economic integration within the GCC framework.”

According to the Ministry of Transport (MoT), travel time between the two ports ranges from 70 to 80 minutes. Passengers can book services and flexibly manage their travel schedules using the dedicated 'Masar' mobile application.

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The vessel carrying the dignitaries and other government officials arrives at Al-Ruwais Port, marking the start of the passenger maritime link service between the two nations.

In its initial phase, the project will offer passenger services to GCC citizens and residents. The inaugural operational trips are scheduled from today (November 7) to November 12, providing two daily round trips, one in the morning and one in the evening.

MoT noted that service frequency will soon increase, with three daily round trips planned from November 13 to 22. Further gradual expansion of the schedule remains an option, subject to demand and utilisation rates.

The service will utilise two types of vessels: standard-class ships accommodating 28 passengers per trip, and VIP-class ships with a capacity of up to 32 passengers. Both vessel types are outfitted with modern hospitality services and amenities to ensure passenger comfort. In addition, all approved security and customs procedures in both countries will be strictly applied to guarantee travelers' safety.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed that MoT, in collaboration with its Bahraini counterpart, is committed to applying the highest standards of safety, security, and operational quality. This commitment, the Minister pointed out, is intended to ensure passengers enjoy a comfortable and safe travel experience while simultaneously enhancing the efficiency of maritime transport services between the two nations.

He lauded Bahrain's Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, along with all relevant entities in both countries, for their efforts in bringing this vital project to completion.

MoT Undersecretary Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Ibrahim al-Maadid said the Qatar–Bahrain maritime link embodies the two nations' shared understanding that transportation is a key driver for sustainable development.

“The inauguration of this new maritime route goes beyond facilitating passenger transport and expanding mobility options; it represents a qualitative step toward creating a stimulating platform for diverse economic, tourism, and service activities-generating tangible benefits across multiple sectors,” he said.

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