New Cruise Terminal at Dubai opens in January 2010
Those who receive my regular email's will have read about our new website coming soon, which is all about Cruises from Dubai. Keep your eyes peeled for more details over the next week or two...
Dubai's new cruise terminal will open in January 2010 and is sure to boost the emirate's push for its expanding cruise industry, and bolster its position as a major regional tourism destination and hub, according to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.
The new cruise terminal in Dubai, at 3,450 square metres, is capable of handling four ships simultaneously. The terminal will have 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 cruise terminal will support Dubai's growing cruise sector. DCTM expects tourist arrivals to reach 260,817 in 2009 -- nearly 25 per cent higher from last year. In 2010, the cruise terminal is projected to receive 99 cruise liners with more than 383,000 passengers.
Phil's comment: Hence our complete focus on Dubai and the Emirates as a huge opportunity for clients of The Cruise Village.
"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 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, ADTA said that on an average, cruise tourists spend more than $300 or about Dh1,1000 per visit, while members of crew spend $150.
Phil's comment: Many people think Dubai and think large city, busy...etc etc but there are two things to remember. Dubai has so much to offer UK holidaymakers, other than shopping. It is a fantastic city with a wealth of sightseeing opportunities and recreational activities.
Secondly Dubai is not the only Emirate for UK holidaymakers, others are now emerging offering a more relaxing experience away from the city life. So make sure you talk to one of my team here at The Cruise Village and we will find you a great deal to Dubia including flights, hotels and of course cruise holidays.
This is a cruise blog entry by Phil
