Ras Al Khaimah Port will open a multi-million dirham passenger terminal and launch twice daily fast ferry services between RAK and Iran's Kish and Qeshm islands this month.
Future plans include a passenger and cargo service to Bandar Abbas, and a five-star motel to accommodate passengers, said officials.
The port has taken delivery of two high-speed passenger ferries built in China at a total cost of $600,000, each with a capacity of 38 passengers.
The price of a return ticket has not been finalised but could be about Dh250, said Majid Al Zaabi, chief engineer, RAK Passenger Terminal.
The growth in tourism and trade prompted the emirate to invest in the passenger terminal and services, he said.
The fast boats Jelfar 1 and Jelfar 2 have air-conditioned cabins, luxury seats, large screen television, refreshment counter and a cafeteria, he said.
The fully aluminium constructed boats are powered by 2X400 HP engines and are capable of making the trip from RAK and Iran in under two hours, said Al Zaabi.
The ferry service is being marketed at the Ship and Port Arabia 2005 show in which RAK Port has a stand with Al Jazeera Port and Mina Saqr Port.
Ship and Port Arabia 2005 exhibition was opened at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre yesterday by Ahmad Butti Ahmad, director-general of Dubai Customs.
It is showcasing ship building, shipyards, ports, logistics, engineering and next-generation marine technology.
Al Zaabi said nationals and others holding a UAE residence visa do not need a visa to take the ferry to Kish and Qeshm.
