Iran’s Nowruz Celebrations: Over 1.6 Million Marine Trips Logged Along Stunning Coasts!

During the first ten days of the Nowruz holiday, Iran experienced a remarkable surge in maritime travel, with over 1.6 million marine journeys recorded along its picturesque coasts. This significant increase in marine activities illustrates the country’s growing maritime sector and its potential for economic growth.

The Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO) of Iran reported that a total of 231,000 vehicles were transported by sea to the enchanting Qeshm and Kish islands during this festive period, which spanned from March 14 to March 23, 2025. The Director-General of Maritime Affairs at PMO, Allah Morad Afifi Poor, shared insights into the operations during this busy season.

• Passenger and Recreational Vessels: A total of 59,000 passenger and recreational vessels were in operation, maintaining smooth services along the coastline.
• Weather Conditions: Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions led to temporary suspensions of marine travel, with forecasts predicting severe weather to persist until Wednesday.
• Safety Protocols: Afifi Poor urged travelers to adhere to safety protocols and avoid using unauthorized vessels during this unpredictable weather.

“The severe weather has affected western coastal regions and will continue to impact other areas. People must follow the authorities’ guidance for their safety,” Afifi Poor emphasized, highlighting the importance of safety measures during unpredictable weather conditions.

Looking ahead, Iran is poised to accelerate its maritime trade and economic growth in the year 1404 (2025-2026) by strategically focusing on strengthening the maritime economy. This will include expanding transit and enhancing logistics management. Saeed Rasouli, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Acting Head of PMO, reaffirmed these strategic priorities in his Nowruz message.

• Investment in Commercial Ports: An impressive allocation of 154 trillion rials has been earmarked for investments in commercial ports.
• Port Tariff Reforms: The PMO has introduced significant reforms aimed at improving port tariffs to boost competitiveness.
• Operational Enhancements: Key initiatives are being undertaken to enhance operational efficiency across various maritime sectors.

Rasouli emphasized the necessity of modernization, highlighting the development of smart ports and the integration of digital technologies as crucial steps toward improving operational efficiency. These advancements are expected to streamline processes and reduce turnaround times, ultimately benefiting traders and travelers alike.

Moreover, Rasouli underscored the importance of coordination among various transport sectors, including maritime, rail, and road transport, to enhance trade corridors. By fostering collaboration, the PMO aims to create a more integrated transportation network that can efficiently manage the flow of goods and services across Iran.

Expressing optimism for the future, Rasouli stated that the year 1404 will signify a transformative period for Iran’s maritime industry, driving both economic prosperity and technological progress. The focus on enhancing maritime activities aligns with the nation’s broader goals of fostering economic growth through strategic investments and innovative practices.

In conclusion, the early days of the Nowruz holiday showcased the vibrancy of Iran’s maritime sector, with significant marine traffic and a commitment to safety amid challenging weather conditions. As the PMO rolls out initiatives aimed at modernization and improved logistics, the future of Iran’s maritime industry looks promising. With ongoing investments and strategic planning, the country is set to enhance its maritime capabilities and position itself as a key player in regional trade and tourism.