The collaboration of four Gulf states aims to reinforce the region’s position in cruise tourism.
- Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain, and Oman join forces under Cruise Arabia at trade shows and events.
- Abu Dhabi’s cruise terminal and upgraded facilities on Sir Bani Yas Island boost visitor capacity.
- Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry emphasizes the role of partnerships in tourism development.
- Abu Dhabi extends its agreement with Hotelbeds to elevate its market visibility.
In a strategic move to bolster cruise tourism, four Gulf states—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain, and Oman—have aligned their efforts under the Cruise Arabia initiative. This collaboration is focused on promoting the region as a top-tier cruise destination through joint promotional activities at international trade shows, exhibitions, and various events.
The Abu Dhabi cruise terminal, notable for accommodating up to three large cruise ships simultaneously, has already managed to handle over 700,000 visitors during the 2022-23 season. Enhancements to the jetty at Sir Bani Yas Island have not only doubled passenger capacity but also improved the overall disembarkation process, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing visitor experience and boosting tourism.
According to Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, the Director General of the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, partnerships play a pivotal role in advancing tourism objectives. He stated, “We are collectively committed to championing cruise tourism reflecting our firm belief in the power of partnerships.” His remarks underscore the strategic importance of the region’s state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal and the dedicated cruise stopover beach on Sir Bani Yas Island, as critical components of Abu Dhabi’s tourism development strategy.
Moreover, the extension of a promotional agreement between Abu Dhabi and Hotelbeds into a third year highlights ongoing efforts to raise the emirate’s profile among travel agents. This agreement is aimed at developing targeted campaigns that enhance Abu Dhabi’s visibility, leveraging partnerships to maintain the momentum in its cruise tourism sector.
This unified approach by the Gulf states is set to significantly enhance the region’s cruise tourism appeal.
