Doha: Qatar's maritime transport sector saw robust growth in the first six months (January to June) of 2025.
The Ministry of Transport (MoT) completed 8,398 transactions through the Maritime Transport Affairs in the first half (H1) of this year, showing a surge of 85 percent compared to H1 of the previous year.
In a post on X, MoT noted that it has completed 5,042 transactions in the second quarter of this year through Maritime Transport Affairs.
Compared to the second quarter of last year, which registered 4,767 transactions, this shows a jump of 5.8 percent in the second quarter of 2025.
The transactions were related to main services such as issuance and accreditation of certificates of competency (C.O.C) for safe manning, naval architect, and marine officer.
The main service also includes maritime vessels (ownership transfer, renewal and registration); and foreign vessels engaged in operations in Qatar waters (data modifying and renewal).
Meanwhile, 3,356 transactions were recorded in the first quarter of this year.
Last year also saw impressive growth in the maritime transport sector, with 11,596 transactions completed.
Qatar’s maritime transport sector is committed to developing and modernising the sector in line with MoT’s strategic plans, aiming at ensuring a safe maritime navigation that meets all safety requirements and obligations.
It keeps pace with international maritime developments through the creative and effective application of international maritime instruments and the observation of emerging trends and latest publications.
Qatar ports handled over 143,000 tonnes of general and bulk cargo in June this year, a 151 percent increase compared to the same month last year.
Additionally, the volume of building materials increased by approximately 14 percent compared to June 2024.
Hamad, Ruwais and Doha ports received 232 vessels in June this year, while the container handling through the three ports stood at 133,461 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).
During the same period, general and bulk cargo, RORO, livestock, and building materials accounted for 143,101 tonnes, 9,883 units, 15,229 heads, and 25,742 tonnes, respectively.
Recently, Qatar’s first Maritime Training, Simulation Center (MTSC) was inaugurated at the University of Doha for Science and Technology.
The MTSC, the first of its kind in Qatar, is designed to empower current and future maritime professionals with internationally accredited skills and hands-on simulation experience, positioning Qatar as a regional leader in maritime training and innovation.
It provides an interactive learning environment with classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art simulation technologies (Classes A and C), featuring navigation and full-mission engine simulation rooms, as well as maritime safety training facilities, including firefighting and first aid.
The MTSC offers training programs recognised by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
As part of its efforts to achieve the strategic objectives of Qatar’s National Vision 2030, the Maritime Transport Sector maintains a close relationship with the International Maritime Organization and runs constant reviews of national legislation to ensure its compliance with relevant international legislation in the best interests of Qatar.
The sector continuously strengthens coordination and cooperation ties with different stakeholders through participation in international meetings and working groups.
