Dubai Cruise Terminal expects 325,000 cruisers

Wed, 6th Jan 2010

New Cruise Terminal 

Dubai expects to attract 325,000 cruise tourists this year, 30% more than in 2009.

The 250,000 it attracted in 2009 represented year-on-year growth of 37%, which means that between 2008 and 2010, Dubai’s cruise traffic is set to rise by almost 80%.

The emirate said 2010 traffic would be boosted by the new Dubai Cruise Terminal, which becomes fully operational at the end of the month and is expected to host 120 ship calls this year.

Spanning 3,450 square metres, the terminal can handle up to four ships simultaneously.

This year’s highlights include Royal Caribbean International becoming the second major cruise line after Costa Cruises to base a ship in Dubai, deploying Brilliance of the Seas in the emirate for seven-night itineraries between January and April 2010.

Meanwhile 23 February sees the inauguration of Costa Deliziosa, the first time an Arabian city has hosted a cruise ship christening ceremony. Costa made Dubai its regional cruise hub in 2007.

Ian Scott, director UK and Ireland for the Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), commented: ‘With the UK and Ireland providing almost one million yearly visitors, Dubai is established as a firm favourite with holidaymakers.

‘Cruise visitors are becoming an increasingly important part of Dubai’s tourism industry and with Dubai Cruise Terminal open for business this month it looks to keep rising further.’

You can find exclusive Dubai cruise offers online at http://www.cruisedubai.co.uk


  

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