Iraqi Line Resumes UAE Commercial Shipping Service via Jebel Ali

Iraq's cargo ship Basra has arrived at Umm Qasr Port carrying containers from the UAE, marking the resumption of the Iraqi Line's commercial shipping service after decades. The direct route connects Jebel Ali Port to Iraq, aimed at expanding maritime freight options between the two nations. According to official Iraqi data, the UAE represents Iraq's third-largest non-oil import source after China and Iran.

Published October 26, 2026 Source: شفق نيوز

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Iraq's cargo vessel Basra arrived at Umm Qasr Port on Sunday carrying containers from the United Arab Emirates, marking the official resumption of the Iraqi Line's commercial maritime shipping service after decades, the Ministry of Transport stated.

Ahmed Jassim, director general of Iraq's State Company for Maritime Transport, confirmed that the vessel completed the journey from Jebel Ali Port in the UAE.

The ministry indicated that the restored feeder connection will increase cargo traffic between Iraqi and Emirati ports, offer traders and importers broader shipping choices, and facilitate bilateral import and export movements.

According to Iraq's General Authority for Statistics and Geographic Information Systems, the UAE accounted for 8.1% of Iraq's non-oil goods imports in 2025, ranking as the country's third-largest import partner behind China and Iran.