Dubai anticipates 25 percent cruise passenger rise

www.dubaitourism.ae

Officials are projecting that the number of tourists coming to Dubai on cruises will rise by up to 25 per cent this year, reaching 260,817.

The increase in cruise visitor numbers over 2008 is expected to rise again in 2010, as the emirate plans to host 99 ships, carrying over 383,000 passengers.

Increased visitor numbers will be facilitated by the opening of the new Dubai Cruise Terminal toward the end of this year, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines joining Costa Cruises in scheduling departures from Dubai.

During the first quarter of 2009, 90,442 cruise tourists arrived in Dubai, on 51 ships. The passengers were mainly from the UK, the US and Europe.

Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is presenting as “Business Breakout Sponsor” at the UK Cruise Convention this week in Dover.

The emirate’s new cruise terminal will be the world’s only facility operated by a government tourism department, meaning that it will provide special attention to all visitors, enhancing their experience in Dubai by face-lifting quick entry and providing certified tour guides, according to DTCM.

Ian Scott, director for the UK and Ireland, said: “Cruise visitors are becoming an increasingly important part of Dubai’s tourism industry and with Dubai Cruise Terminal fully open for business by the end of the year it looks to grow further.”

Thanks to www.travelmole.com for the above quotes, for more information on this article please visit their website.

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