Folk Maritime Services Company, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has launched a new regional shipping route, the “India-Arabian Gulf Service.” This route connects key GCC ports, including Dammam and Umm Qasr, with major commercial ports in India, such as Nhava Sheva and Mundra.
The inaugural vessel for this service, the “Asterius,” has a capacity of 1,827 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). Initially operating as a 14-day service, it is set to evolve into a weekly schedule by December.
This new route aims to strengthen trade ties between Saudi Arabia and India, facilitating the movement of consumer goods, petrochemicals, and essential commodities, while fostering a strategic partnership between the two nations.
Paul Hestback, CEO of Folk Maritime, commented, “We are thrilled to introduce our new service to the Arabian Gulf. This route fills a critical gap in the logistics supply chain and supports our mission to connect the world’s leading ports, industries, and shipping lines. Launching this service aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of positioning Dammam as a global logistics hub.
