Dubai Tourism Get's Boost from New Cruise Terminal

Wed, 9th Dec 2009

Dubai's new cruise terminal aids growing cruise sector 

Phil's comment: The investment in Dubai's new cruise terminal has boosted the emirate's push for its expanding cruise industry, and bolstered its position as a major regional tourism destination and hub, according to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce MarketingDepartment of Tourism and Commerce MarketingDepartment of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

Our new website CruiseDubai.co.uk is dedicated to the growth of Dubai and the Emirates as a major tourist destination.

The new cruise terminal, straddling 3,450 square metres, is capable of handling four ships simultaneously. The facility has all the tourist support infrastructure, including money exchange, ATM machine, post office outlet, duty free shop, souvenir shops, gift shops, and business centre with free internet access.

The opening of the new facility was key in supporting Dubai's growing cruise sector. In 2010, the cruise terminal is projected to receive 99 cruise liners with more than 383,000 passengers.

"Dubai has invested heavily in the tourism sector and is better-placed during this challenging time. We strongly believe that Dubai may emerge faster than other regions when the global economy improves. As for cruise tourism, I can proudly say that Dubai is head and shoulders above other destinations," said Hamad bin Merjren, executive director of business tourism ?at DCTM. Being the only cruise terminal in the world operated by a government agency, Merjren said tourists are assured of quality service, including certified tour guides and a swift entry system with no visa issues for visitors.

The new cruise terminal's capacity will be two times bigger than the one operating at the Port Rashid terminal which can handle up two two cruise ships simultaneously.

Abu Dhabi is also planning to capitalise on the cruise industry and has said that it also recognised its importance to boost tourist arrivals.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism AuthorityAbu Dhabi Tourism AuthorityAbu Dhabi Tourism Authority, expects a 59 per cent growth in cruise passenger arrivals in the 2009-2010 season.

The emirate is also exploring the possibility of developing its own home port and is currently conducting a market study on the capital's cruise potential. The study is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Previously, ADTAADTAAbu Dhabi Tourism Authority said that on an average, cruise tourists spend more than $300 or about Dh1,1000 per visit, while members of crew spend $150.

Facts & figures courtesy of Khaleej Times 2009.
  

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