DOHA — Qatar has resumed all maritime navigation activities after lifting a temporary advisory that had suspended sailing and fishing operations for smaller vessels, with authorities saying maritime traffic can return to normal while urging continued compliance with safety regulations.
The Ministry of Transport announced that maritime navigation activities had resumed immediately for all types of maritime vessels and ships, ending restrictions introduced on June 29 as a precautionary measure amid heightened regional security concerns. Commercial shipping had remained exempt from the earlier advisory.
In its statement, the ministry said vessel owners, operators and users should continue to comply with existing maritime regulations and ensure that all required safety and security equipment is carried on board before and during voyages. The ministry said the measures were intended to maintain the highest standards of safety and security for maritime operations.
The June 29 advisory had instructed owners and operators of leisure craft, fishing boats and other marine vessels not covered by international maritime regulations to suspend sailing until further notice. Commercial shipping and internationally regulated vessels were not included in the suspension, limiting disruption to Qatar's major trade flows through its ports.
Qatari authorities did not provide a detailed explanation for the initial suspension. The advisory followed reports by the government that a Qatari national had died after sustaining shrapnel injuries during what officials described as military operations in the region after his vessel disappeared.
The restoration of normal maritime activity comes as Gulf states continue efforts to stabilize transportation and commercial links following weeks of regional tensions that affected shipping, aviation and other cross-border movements. Although navigation has resumed in Qatari waters, international authorities have continued to monitor security risks across parts of the Gulf.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has maintained warnings for airlines operating in parts of the Middle East because of the risk posed by ongoing regional hostilities, highlighting that some transportation sectors continue to face elevated security concerns despite improvements in maritime operations.
Separately, Iranian state media reported that maritime trade between Iran and Qatar had resumed following diplomatic coordination, reopening cargo services between Iran's Dayyer port and Qatar's Al Ruwais port after months of disruption.
Qatari authorities have not announced any new maritime restrictions and have instructed operators to continue normal navigation while observing all applicable safety and security requirements.
