Bahrain and Qatar have launched a direct ferry service for the first time, significantly easing travel between the two nations. Previously, citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) had to rely on flights or lengthy land routes through Saudi Arabia, which involved border checks. The new ferry route, operational since November 6, reduces travel time to just 50 minutes, initially offering two daily return trips. The operator intends to expand this service in the future.
This development carries political weight, as Bahrain and Qatar have had longstanding disputes over their shared border, which also reflects their differing relations with Iran. Recently, Qatar appointed Nasser Abdullah Hassan Al Nassr as its new ambassador to Bahrain, replacing his predecessor who served for only a year, indicating a potential thaw in relations.
The border dispute was largely resolved in 2001 when an International Court of Justice ruling favored Bahrain, awarding it the Hawar Islands and modifying maritime borders. However, Bahrain’s claim to Zubarah, an ancient town on the Qatari mainland, was denied, a decision that has continued to cause tension due to its historical significance to Bahrain’s Khalifa royal family.
Operated by the Bahraini Masar Group, the ferry runs between Saadah Marina in Bahrain and Al Ruwais Port in Qatar, initially serving only foot passengers who are GCC citizens. This service may particularly attract Bahrain’s Shi’a community, who have familial ties in Iran, since it facilitates easier travel to Iran. This initiative is seen as a step towards creating a common travel area within the GCC, aimed at eliminating barriers that have arisen due to regional disputes. The introduction of a Unified GCC Tourist Visa later this year further supports this goal.
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