Doha, Nov. 8 -- In a landmark move to strengthen regional connectivity and bilateral ties, Qatar and Bahrain have launched their first passenger maritime route linking Qatar's Al Ruwais Port with Bahrain's Sa'ada Marina.

The direct ferry service, inaugurated on Thursday, November 6, covers nearly 35 nautical miles (around 65 kilometres) and offers a travel time of 70 to 80 minutes. Operated through the new MASAR electronic booking platform, the service marks a major step towards enhancing Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) integration through modern, sustainable transport links.

The launch ceremony was attended by Qatar's Minister of Transport, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, and Bahrain's Minister of Transportation an...