GT Lines is strengthening its regional maritime network with the expansion of its “Gulf Connect” intra-Gulf service, enhancing direct connectivity between key GCC markets, Iraq and the carrier’s wider international network.
The Gulf Connect network is designed to provide fast and reliable container connectivity across the Gulf, linking the UAE, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain while offering connections to GT Lines’ international corridors covering Pakistan, India, Asia, China and East Africa.
The network currently comprises three dedicated intra-Gulf loops operated by six dedicated vessels:
SIX – Sharjah Iraq Express: Sharjah – Umm Qasr – Shuwaikh – Sharjah, with three departures per week.
SQX – Sharjah Qatar Express: Sharjah – Hamad – Bahrain – Sharjah, with two departures per week.
SKX – Sharjah KSA Express: Sharjah – Dammam – Sharjah, with weekly departures.
According to GT Lines, its strategically positioned operations through Sharjah and Khorfakkan, supported by an integrated UAE logistics ecosystem, enable Gulf Connect to go beyond conventional feeder services.
The network provides connectivity to Iraq through Gulftainer ICT, as well as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain, while linking these markets with GT Lines’ broader international service corridors.
The carrier said the initiative reflects its vision of creating an integrated logistics ecosystem that combines shipping, terminals, inland logistics and regional distribution to support more efficient cargo movement across the Gulf and beyond.
With growing trade flows between the Gulf, the Indian subcontinent, Asia and East Africa, the strengthened Gulf Connect network is positioned to provide exporters, importers and logistics operators with additional regional shipping options and improved access to international markets.