By
Michele Witthaus |
Dubai Cruise Terminal has hosted four mega cruise ships simultaneously for the first time in its history.
During a 24-hour period, the four vessels, with a capacity of more than 9,000 passengers, were berthed at Port Rashid. Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) said the terminal experienced an increase of 30 per cent in tourist traffic between 2009 and 2010, from 100 ships and 260,000 passengers to 120 ships and more than 390,000 passengers. In 2011, 135 cruise vessels called at the port, with a total passenger number of 375,000. DP World plans to expand the existing terminal facilities to serve as many as five cruise ships at one time, with long-term plans for as many as seven vessels.
Mohammed Al Muallem, senior vice president and managing director, DP World, UAE Region, said: “Dubai Cruise Terminal’s success in handling four mega passenger vessels at one time confirms Port Rashid’s ability to embrace the growth in cruise tourism in Dubai.” He added: “DP World is committed to investing long term in the transformation of Port Rashid into the region’s cruise destination of choice with the support and close cooperation of DTCM, our strategic partner in promoting cruise tourism in Dubai.”
Mohammed Al Mannaei, director, Port Rashid, DP World, UAE Region, commented: “Accommodating four cruise vessels and handling many thousands of passengers simultaneously was a challenge we were ready for at the port and we succeeded in ensuring smooth anchorage for the large vessels. I would like to thank all those involved for their commitment and cooperation in carrying out this operation.”
Dubai Cruise Terminal was recently voted World’s Leading Cruise Port at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2011.