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UAE-Backed Ferry Service Brings New Era of Travel to Comoros

UAE-Backed Ferry Service Brings New Era of Travel to Comoros
  • PublishedSeptember 13, 2025

The Comoros Islands have entered a new chapter in travel and trade. A passenger and vehicle ferry service has been launched, bringing faster, safer, and more reliable connections between islands.

The project is led by Serdal International, a partnership between AD Ports Group and Resources Investment of Abu Dhabi. This marks the first time that people and vehicles can move across the Comoros with a single ferry service.

This launch is not only about transport. It is about growth, trade, healthcare, tourism, and stronger communities. And at the heart of it is the UAE’s vision to connect nations and empower emerging markets.

First Ever Passenger and Vehicle Ferry in Comoros

The official launch took place on the island of Anjouan. The ceremony was attended by Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros, and Jumaa Rashed Al Remeithi, UAE Ambassador to the Comoros. Senior officials and local leaders also joined the event.

The highlight of the project is the Yameela ferry, a modern vessel that carries 190 passengers in air-conditioned comfort and up to 45 vehicles.

This is the first time in Comoros’ history that such a structured ferry service exists. It connects the Port of Moroni on Grande Comore, the main island, with Mutsamudu on Anjouan. The link between these two busy hubs will change daily life for residents and visitors alike.

 Why This Ferry Matters for the Comoros

For years, travel between the islands of Comoros has been difficult. Small boats were often unsafe, slow, and unreliable. Moving goods, vehicles, or even reaching hospitals and schools was a big challenge.

The new ferry solves these problems. It offers:

  • Safe travel for families, students, and workers.
  • Quick access to healthcare and education across islands.
  • Reliable transport for vehicles, goods, and trade.
  • Affordable options that people can trust.

By linking Grande Comore and Anjouan with regular and dependable service, the ferry gives the people of Comoros something they have needed for decades connection and opportunity.

Serdal International and UAE’s Role

The ferry is operated by Serdal International, a company formed by AD Ports Group and Resources Investment.

AD Ports Group is a major global trade enabler from the UAE. It manages ports, logistics, and shipping services worldwide. By partnering with local communities, it helps build better infrastructure and open new markets.

Abdulaziz Zayed Al Shamsi, CEO of Serdal International, explained the vision clearly:

“We are pleased to introduce safe, dependable public water transportation to the Comoros, harnessing the potential of this island network to support community development and drive economic growth.”

This reflects the UAE’s wider strategy. The country has been investing heavily in Africa’s future. From ports to logistics to energy, the UAE is building ties that bring growth to both sides.

The Yameela Ferry: More Than Just Transport

The Yameela ferry is designed for comfort, safety, and efficiency. With 190 passenger seats and 45 vehicle slots, it can serve families, traders, tourists, and businesses all at once.

Inside, the ferry has air-conditioned cabins, ensuring comfort even on long trips. For traders and vehicle owners, it provides peace of mind, as goods can now move securely between islands.

The route between Moroni and Mutsamudu will become a lifeline. It will support:

  • Commerce, by moving goods faster.
  • Tourism, by making travel easier for visitors.
  • Healthcare, by connecting patients with hospitals.
  • Education, by helping students reach schools and universities.
  • This ferry is not just about moving people and cars. It is about moving the entire nation forward.

Boosting Trade and Economic Growth

Comoros is an island nation with a small economy based mostly on farming, fishing, and small businesses. One of its biggest challenges has been the cost of moving goods between islands.

With the new ferry, costs will fall, efficiency will rise, and businesses will grow. Farmers can sell produce across islands faster. Fishermen can deliver their catch fresh. Traders can move goods safely without relying on risky boats.

The ability to move vehicles means trucks and vans can carry goods directly to markets. This simple change will strengthen local trade, open new opportunities, and increase income for families.

For the government of Comoros, this service is also an invitation for new investment. Better transport means a better environment for business growth.

Opening Doors for Tourism in Comoros

The Comoros Islands are rich in natural beauty. From volcanic mountains to clear beaches, the country has everything to attract global tourists. Yet poor transport has always held back this sector.

The new ferry changes that. Visitors can now explore multiple islands with ease. Tour operators can design packages that include both Grande Comore and Anjouan. Hotels and restaurants will see new guests, and locals will gain jobs in tourism.

Tourism growth also brings more foreign exchange and creates sustainable jobs. For a small nation like Comoros, this is a game changer.

Social Benefits: Connecting People and Communities

Beyond trade and tourism, the biggest impact is social. Families separated across islands will now meet more often. Students will have better access to schools. Patients will reach hospitals in time. Workers will find more job opportunities.

The ferry brings a new sense of unity. For the people of Comoros, this is not just transport it is hope, safety, and progress.

UAE’s Strategic Partnership with Africa

The launch of the Yameela ferry also shows the UAE’s commitment to Africa. For years, the UAE has invested in African ports, airports, and logistics centers. The focus is on creating long-term growth through infrastructure.

By supporting Comoros, the UAE is not only helping one nation but also showing the possibilities for small island countries. Reliable maritime services can change an economy and improve lives.

This is part of a larger vision: building strong partnerships across Africa, improving connectivity, and creating shared prosperity.

Professional Management with Noatum Maritime

The ferry service is managed by Noatum Maritime, a part of AD Ports Group. This ensures high safety standards and global best practices.

With professional management, the service will run smoothly and reliably. It will be affordable for locals while maintaining quality and sustainability.

This also means Comoros can serve as a model for other small island nations. What is happening here can be copied in other parts of Africa and beyond.

The Bigger Picture: Future Expansion

The Yameela ferry is just the start. Serdal International has plans for further investments. More ferries, more routes, and stronger integration with ports and logistics networks could follow.

By starting here, the UAE and Comoros are creating a blueprint for sustainable growth. It is not only about transport but also about building a foundation for future generations.

A Lifeline for Comoros

The launch of the first passenger and vehicle ferry in Comoros is more than a transport project. It is a symbol of progress, opportunity, and partnership.

With the support of the UAE and Serdal International, the islands now have a safe, affordable, and dependable way to connect. This will boost trade, tourism, healthcare, education, and social unity.

For Comoros, the ferry is a lifeline. For the UAE, it is another step in building global connections that create growth for all.

The Yameela ferry is not just about today. It is about shaping a future where the people of Comoros can move forward together.

Written By
Shweta