Gürbulak Customs Gate on the Historical Silk Road Has Been Renovated

One of the most important border crossing points connecting Türkiye with Iran and Central Asia, the Gürbulak Customs Gate, has entered service with a renewed face following a comprehensive modernization process. Located on the historic Silk Road and serving as a strategic gateway to Asia, Gürbulak has been transformed into a structure capable of responding more rapidly and securely to the increasing volume of international trade.

Construction of the Gürbulak Customs Gate began in 1936 in line with the directives of Atatürk, and it was officially opened to service on March 14, 1937, pursuant to Law No. 325/07 enacted by the Turkish Grand National Assembly. For many years, the gate has played a key role in Türkiye’s trade with Iran and the Turkic Republics of Central Asia. First modernized in 2003, the facility gradually became insufficient to meet rising trade volumes and vehicle traffic over time.

Comprehensive Transformation Through the Build–Operate–Transfer Model

Gaining renewed importance within Türkiye’s “Reviving Silk Road” vision, the Gürbulak Customs Gate was transferred to Customs and Tourism Enterprises Inc. (GTİ) in 2020 to be modernized under the build–operate–transfer model. The ongoing investment works were carried out in stages without disrupting the intense traffic at the border gate, where approximately 800 trucks enter and exit daily.

Upon completion of the project, the total site area of the customs gate was expanded from 180,000 m² to 320,000 m², while the enclosed area increased from 16,000 m² to 48,000 m². A total of 16 lanes—8 entry and 8 exit lanes—were constructed for truck traffic, along with 4 lanes—2 entry and 2 exit lanes—for automobiles and buses, effectively doubling the existing capacity.

High-Level Security and Technological Infrastructure

As part of the modernization works, the Gürbulak Customs Gate was equipped with advanced security systems. The site now includes three vehicle control and scanning (X-ray) systems, high-technology CCTV surveillance systems, card-based access systems, license plate recognition systems, and under-vehicle inspection systems, creating a highly secure and controlled border facility.

In addition, to meet the needs of public personnel working at the site, the project also includes three residential buildings comprising 198 apartments with a total enclosed area of 20,000 m², as well as a daycare center and social facilities.

“Our Customs Gates Must Be Ready”

The opening ceremony of the renewed Gürbulak Customs Gate was attended by Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat. In his remarks at the ceremony, Bolat emphasized that Gürbulak serves as Türkiye’s gateway to Asia and stated that the modernization would make significant contributions to the economy and regional trade.

Bolat made the following statement:

“When the war in the Gulf region comes to an end and an environment of peace and stability is established, we believe that trade will increase further alongside Iran’s development and economic growth initiatives, as well as the needs of neighboring countries. For this reason, we must be prepared for a period in which entries and exits will accelerate. The Gürbulak Customs Gate is an important part of this vision.”

Türkiye’s Modern Gateway to Asia

With its renewed infrastructure, increased capacity, and advanced security systems, the Gürbulak Customs Gate aims to facilitate a faster, safer, and more efficient trade flow between Türkiye and Iran as well as Central Asia. Located on the historic Silk Road, this strategic border crossing is set to make strong contributions to both regional development and Türkiye’s position within the international logistics network.

Source: Gümrük ve Turizm İşletmeleri, HaberTürk