Doha, November 06 (QNA) - HE Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Thani and HE Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications of the Kingdom of Bahrain Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa Thursday launched the regular maritime linkage project between the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Bahrain, ushering in a new chapter of constructive bilateral cooperation in maritime transportation.
The direct passenger-only ferry service, which covers nearly 35 nautical miles (about 65 km), links Al Ruwais Port in northern Qatar with Sa'ada Marina in Bahrain.
HE Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Thani described the project as a pioneering strategic step that reflects the depth of the brotherly bonds between the two countries and enhances the ties of cooperation and integration between the GCC countries.
He added that the project also reflects the State of Qatar's keenness on the developmental and strategic partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain and advancing the transportation industry and its associated logistics services, thereby serving the mutual interests and boosting the economic integration within the GCC system.
He said the Ministry of Transport (MOT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT) of the Kingdom of Bahrain, was keen on applying the highest safety, security and operational quality standards to ensure convenient and safe travel experience and enhance the efficiency of maritime transportation services between the two countries.
HE the Minister thanked the Bahraini MTT and bodies concerned of both countries for their sincere efforts to complete and deliver that important project.
HE MOT Undersecretary Mohammed Abdullah Al Maadeed said that the maritime linkage project between Qatar and Bahrain embodies the shared vision of both countries, which sees transportation as one of the key drivers of sustainable development.
He added that launching the new ferry line isn't just about transporting individuals and making more mobility options available but represents a qualitative step that creates a platform that incentivizes various economic, tourist, and service activities, which can reflect positively on all industries.
With the new ferry service, the trip between Al Ruwais Port and Sa'ada Marina will take 70-80 minutes. Booking is available via the electronic easy-to-use application (MASAR).
In the first phase of the project, the service will be available for nationals of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) only.
The first trips will be during the period 7 to 12 November; two round trips a day, one in the morning and another in the evening, to increase later to three round trips a day, from 13 to 22 November. The number of daily trips can be increased gradually depending on the turnout and ridership rate.
Both standard and VIP vessels are available for passengers. Each standard and VIP vessel can transport up to 28 and 32 passengers per trip, respectively, with modern and comforting hospitality services on board.
All trips are subject to all the security and customs protocols of both countries to ensure the safety of all passengers.
The project represents a paradigm shift in the GCC maritime transportation system, embodying both countries' commitment to cementing the regional integration and streamlining the movement of individuals, thereby supporting the vision of the GCC toward a uniform, safe and sustainable transportation network. (QNA)