A new, dedicated feeder service has commenced operations, connecting Karachi with two major United Arab Emirates ports in a move designed to fortify maritime links for Pakistan’s trading community as regional shipping dynamics continue to shift.
The new route establishes a regular shipping connection between Karachi and the key transshipment hubs of Fujairah and Khor Fakkan, enabling Pakistani importers and exporters to maintain reliable access to global container shipping networks, according to a report today.
Operations for the service, which will call at Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited (KGTL), officially began with the inaugural vessel”s arrival on the evening of 11 March. KGTL is part of AD Ports Group’s international ports operating arm, Noatum Ports.
This new feeder link is intended to support supply chain continuity and help ensure that Pakistan’s trade maintains dependable access to international markets.
Cargo routed through the UAE ports will benefit from seamless connectivity to wider regional and international shipping lines, supported by the country”s advanced logistics infrastructure. Containers can be transferred efficiently via integrated road and rail corridors to major commercial hubs and logistics centres across the UAE.
Khurram Aziz Khan, Chief Executive Officer of Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited (KGTL), said: “The commencement of this feeder service reflects KGTL’s continued commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s maritime connectivity and supporting the country’s trading community. By linking Karachi directly with major UAE transshipment hubs, this service provides importers and exporters with reliable access to global shipping networks while reinforcing the role of Karachi Gateway Terminal as a key gateway for international trade.”
Given that Pakistan’s economy relies heavily on maritime trade, the strengthened connectivity with regional hubs is expected to provide additional resilience for the nation’s exporters, importers, and supply chains.
Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed (Retd.), Chairman, Karachi Port Trust, said: “The introduction of this feeder service further enhances Karachi Port’s connectivity with key regional hubs and supports Pakistan’s growing trade requirements. Strengthening maritime links with the UAE will help facilitate smoother cargo movement while providing greater flexibility for the country’s trading community.”