Shipping Arabia, November 5, 2026 – Iraq’s Al-Wasiliyah Port, located along the Shatt Al-Arab waterway, is advancing preparations for its opening as the General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) works to complete technical and operational requirements. The port is also seeking the official approvals needed to begin handling cargo and passenger traffic.
The preparations form part of Iraq’s efforts to develop its port infrastructure and improve the operational capabilities of maritime facilities along the Shatt Al-Arab.
Technical and Operational Readiness Under Review
Haitham Kazem, Deputy Director General for Technical Affairs at GCPI, confirmed that the port is continuing efforts to meet the requirements for entering service.
During a field inspection, Kazem reviewed the port’s available capabilities and assessed its operational requirements. The visit also covered the procedures necessary to prepare the facility for receiving cargo and passengers.
Kazem explained that the port is currently working to obtain the official approvals required for its opening. These approvals remain part of the preparations before the facility can begin operations.
The ongoing work focuses on completing the technical and operational requirements needed to bring Al-Wasiliyah Port into service.
Al-Wasiliyah Port Opening to Support Maritime Transport
Once operational, Al-Wasiliyah Port is expected to provide an additional maritime facility along the Shatt Al-Arab, supporting the movement of cargo and passengers.
According to Kazem, the port’s entry into service will help expand maritime transport activities and strengthen cargo and passenger movements in the area. These developments are also expected to support regional economic and maritime activity.
The port’s planned operations will therefore contribute to the network of maritime facilities serving the Shatt Al-Arab.
Development Plans for Iraq’s Port Infrastructure
GCPI indicated that preparations for the Al-Wasiliyah Port opening align with directives from Iraqi Minister of Transport Wahib Al-Hassani.
The directives focus on strengthening GCPI’s development plans, upgrading port infrastructure and improving the operational efficiency of Iraq’s maritime facilities.
As preparations continue, the completion of technical and operational requirements and the acquisition of official approvals remain central to bringing Al-Wasiliyah Port into service for cargo and passenger operations.
Source: Iraqi Ministry of Transport / General Company for Ports of Iraq
