Abu Dhabi’s cruise developments excite cruise ship operators around the world
NEW ISLAND STOPOVER AND NEW TERMINAL DEVELOPMENT LEADS TO HOME PORT DECISION
Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) has been promoting Abu Dhabi’s developing cruise industry to international cruise line executives at the Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
Noura Al Dhaheri, ADPC’s cruise terminal manager responsible for developing the industry at Zayed Port, was able to tell the delegates about several significant new developments for the cruise industry in Abu Dhabi, all of which have contributed to Royal Caribbean’s decision to base one of its Celebrity Cruise vessels – Celebrity Constellation – in Zayed Port, as a home port from 2016/2017 season
She was able to announce that Sir Bani Yas Island will be available as the regions very first island stopover destination for cruise vessels in Q4 2015. The island is already known as a luxury nature based destination with a range of adventure activities.
Ms Al Dhaheri updated the delegates on the progress of Abu Dhabi’s new Cruise Terminal project. Work began clearing the site several months ago and actual construction of the new building will commence in January, with the new terminal being operational by Q4 2015.
The new building and facilities will have space for three cruise vessels at a time and be able to handle more than 2,500 passengers simultaneously.
Lastly, ADPC was able to share the good news that Royal Caribbean’s Celebrity Cruises will be using Abu Dhabi as a home port during 2016/2017 season.
Ms Al Dhaheri, ADPC Cruise Terminal Manager, said: “The cruise business in Abu Dhabi has grown five-fold over the last six years. We have welcomed more than 600 ships, since the business began – that’s more than 900,000 passengers from over 90 different countries.
“The fact that Celebrity Cruises has chosen to ‘home port’ a ship in Zayed Port, which is a first for the Gulf Region, just demonstrates how attractive Abu Dhabi has become as global holiday destination and confirms ADPC’s commitment to developing this important industry in the Emirate
