Iraqi truckers expand Saudi Arabia-Arar transit route to Central Asia

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq has recorded more than 5,000 international transit operations since March 2025, as Iraqi truckers began moving goods loaded in Saudi Arabia through the Arar border crossing into Central Asia, Iraqi officials said. Transport authorities said the Arar corridor has quickly gained importance in regional transit trade, with cargo volumes rising noticeably in recent months. The road-based shipments are diversifying trade routes between Gulf states and Central Asian markets. The participation of Iraqi trucking firms in the TIR system is allowing Iraq to take on a larger role in transit logistics, according to officials. Standardized transit documents have also accelerated border procedures, they added. Officials said transaction volumes at the Arar crossing are expected to increase further in the coming period.