Dubai: Ports across the region are looking to bolster cruise infrastructure as cruise calls proliferate. Delegates attending this week’s Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum this week heard of plans to develop Abu Dhabi’s Mina Zayed into a cruise terminal while the Qatar Tourism Authority laid out plans to add a cruise terminal to Doha port.
Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, acting ceo of Abu Dhabi Ports Company, said: “In the past six years the number of cruise liners calling at Zayed Port has more than doubled. The city centre port is in an ideal location and we have an amazing range of attractions on offer making Abu Dhabi a unique and very special destination and a real highlight of any Gulf cruise itinerary.”
Meanwhile, QTA chairman Issa bin Mohamed al-Mohannadi said of plans to develop cruise tourism in Qatar: “The presence of a home port for cruise lines would enhance not only Qatar but the Gulf’s position as a tourist destination and promote economic diversity. As the tourism industry develops in Qatar and across the Gulf, the cruise market can be a pillar of growth that accelerates our efforts and brings more people to discover the products on offer.” [12/12/13]
