Iraq’s national maritime carrier, Iraqi Line, is resuming commercial shipping operations in the Gulf following a suspension of more than 50 years.
The first sailing to depart from Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates for Umm Qasr Port in Iraq on 15 October 2026.
According to Iraq Business News, citing the Iraqi Ministry of Transport, the return is intended to increase cargo flows through Iraqi ports, support regional trade and expand the national carrier’s presence across regional shipping routes.
The ministry said Iraqi cargo vessels last operated in the region during the mid-1960s. The initiative was directed by Transport Minister Wahab Salman Mohammed as part of broader plans to reactivate Iraq’s national carriers and strengthen their role in transport and trade.
