Iraq Reviews Umm Qasr Port Upgrades and Immersed Tunnel Construction Progress
Shipping Arabia, November 12, 2026 – The General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) has conducted a series of field inspections to review Umm Qasr port upgrades, cargo handling operations and infrastructure rehabilitation projects. The inspections covered Umm Qasr North and South ports, as well as ongoing construction of the immersed tunnel project.
GCPI Director General Abdullah Ati Abdullah led the inspections in accordance with directives from Iraq’s Minister of Transport, Wahb Al-Hassani. The visits focused on assessing construction progress, reviewing operational performance and identifying technical requirements and challenges affecting project implementation.
The inspections form part of the company’s efforts to modernize Iraq’s port infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency and strengthen the operational capabilities of its commercial ports.
Umm Qasr Port Upgrades Cover Gates, Berths and Road Infrastructure
At Umm Qasr North Port, Abdullah conducted a field inspection accompanied by Port Director Capt. Salem Jabbar Hussein. The visit covered several development projects, including the construction of the port’s main gates, Station No. 2 and new berths.
The director general examined berth operations and reviewed cargo handling procedures. He also assessed how shipments move from the berths to designated storage areas, focusing on the efficiency of cargo movement within the port.
In addition, the inspection covered ongoing road rehabilitation works and the port’s overpass project. Abdullah reviewed construction progress and the remaining requirements for completing these infrastructure improvements.
Engineering and technical teams provided updates on implementation stages, completion rates and outstanding project requirements. Following these discussions, Abdullah instructed the teams to intensify field supervision, accelerate construction and address obstacles affecting progress.
He also emphasized the importance of meeting approved technical specifications, maintaining quality standards and completing projects within their established schedules.
The Umm Qasr North development projects aim to strengthen the port’s infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and facilitate smoother cargo handling and transportation. These improvements are intended to support the port’s position as one of Iraq’s major commercial maritime gateways.
Umm Qasr South Port Focuses on Cargo Operations and Infrastructure Rehabilitation
At Umm Qasr South Port, the director general inspected ongoing cargo operations and reviewed the implementation of development and infrastructure rehabilitation projects.
The visit included inspections of operational berths, where Abdullah monitored cargo loading and unloading activities. He also examined berth maintenance and rehabilitation works, alongside improvements to storage and service yards.
During discussions with engineering, technical and operational personnel, Abdullah reviewed their requirements and observations concerning port activities and project execution.
He directed the relevant teams to accelerate development works while adhering to approved technical standards and project deadlines. The instructions also emphasized improving cargo handling efficiency, maintaining smooth operational workflows and removing obstacles that could delay implementation.
These efforts are part of GCPI’s broader program to upgrade port infrastructure and increase operational efficiency. The company aims to strengthen the port’s ability to support maritime trade and contribute to Iraq’s national economy.
Immersed Tunnel Project Construction Progress Under Review
Separately, Abdullah visited the immersed tunnel project to assess construction progress, implementation stages and completion rates.
The inspection followed directives from Transport Minister Wahb Al-Hassani calling for continued field monitoring of strategic infrastructure projects and closer oversight of implementation.
During the visit, engineering and technical teams briefed the director general on the status of construction activities and the technical requirements associated with the remaining works.
Abdullah stressed the need to maintain construction momentum and accelerate progress while complying with approved engineering specifications and established project schedules.
The immersed tunnel inspection forms part of GCPI’s monitoring of major infrastructure developments intended to support improvements across Iraq’s transport and port sectors.
Together, the inspections of Umm Qasr North, Umm Qasr South and the immersed tunnel project highlight the company’s focus on infrastructure development, project delivery and operational performance.
Through these initiatives, GCPI seeks to improve cargo movement, strengthen port efficiency and support the continued development of Iraq’s maritime transport infrastructure.
Source: Iraqi Ministry of Transport / General Company for Ports of Iraq
