DCT Abu Dhabi showcases cruise offering at SeaTrade Cruise Global
Abu Dhabi's presence at the event reflects its commitment to building partnerships within the sector and showcasing the diverse experiences available to travellers, ranging from luxury resorts and pristine beaches to historical sites and global events.
The emirate continues to be developed as a leading cruise destination, attracting international cruise lines and visitors. In 2024, Abu Dhabi welcomed over 693,000 cruise visitors through 158 port calls, an indication of its popularity with travellers and signalling further opportunities for growth and investment in the emirate's cruise sector.
Haitham Ali Khamis, Section Head – Aviation, Cruise and Global Partnerships at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: 'Abu Dhabi's emergence as a leading regional cruise destination is the result of our continued collaboration with partners and our commitment to delivering tailored experiences that resonate with international travellers. With nearly 700,000 cruise visitors last year, our momentum is stronger than ever. Through our participation in SeaTrade Cruise Global, DCT Abu Dhabi aims to forge new partnerships, highlight the emirate's growing cruise offerings, and create more opportunities for visitors from around the world to experience everything Abu Dhabi has to offer.'
Noura Rashed Al Dhaheri, CEO of Cruise Business at AD Ports said: "We are thrilled to participate in Seatrade Cruise Global, a premier event that brings together the global cruise industry. We believe this exhibition presents a valuable opportunity for us to showcase Abu Dhabi's unique offerings and strengthen our position as a regional force in the cruise industry, offering world-class facilities, and unparalleled access to the region's most breathtaking attractions, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. We have evolved to become the preferred port of call for many leading cruise lines, and strengthening our industry partnerships will play a pivotal role in driving growth and ensure long lasting business relationships.'
A number of new services have also been launched to improve the cruise journey for both visitors and crew members.
These include the region's first-ever Cruise Crew Pass and Crew Parcel Pick-Up Service, designed to enhance crew experience with exclusive discounts and convenience.
Additionally, a dedicated digital Cruise Guide has been introduced to help cruise passengers easily explore what Abu Dhabi has to offer.
The Abu Dhabi Pass, available to all cruise visitors, offers discounts across top attractions, dining venues, and retail outlets, encouraging longer stays and a deeper engagement with the city's rich culture and hospitality.
DCT Abu Dhabi is also focused on improving the visitor journey from the moment passengers dock. Enhancements at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal include the opening of a new Visitor Information Centre at Zayed Port, which offers guidance, booking assistance, and insights into the emirate's diverse attractions. Visitors can also explore the nearby Zayed Port Heritage Village, offering a glimpse into the UAE's history and traditions.
DCT Abu Dhabi's presence at SeaTrade Cruise Global aligns with its broader strategy to engage with global stakeholders and establish strategic collaborations. Recent initiatives include a partnership with Celestyal Cruises, that will see the Celestyal Discovery Homeport from Abu Dhabi for the 2025/2026 season and onwards. This gives visitors a unique opportunity of having the option of staying for a couple of nights before or after their cruise, as well as joint marketing projects (JMPs) with cruise agents in the UK and Russia.
Furthermore, enhancement to the emirate's cruise offering such as the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, guest-centric services, and the dedicated cruise beach stopover at Sir Bani Yas Island all contribute to the emirate's Tourism Strategy 2030. This long-term vision focuses on enhancing infrastructure, elevating hospitality standards, and developing cultural attractions, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a premier global destination. -TradeArabia News Service
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Bahrain This Week
15-07-2025
- Bahrain This Week
TRAVIS SCOTT ADDS ABU DHABI SHOW TO RECORD-BREAKING ‘CIRCUS MAXIMUS' WORLD TOUR
Internationally acclaimed superstar Travis Scott has added a new Abu Dhabi, UAE date to his 2025 CIRCUS MAXIMUS WORLD TOUR. The show is set to take place on Saturday, November 15 at Etihad Park. Promoted by Live Nation Middle East, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, the limited global run will span six countries, kicking off on Saturday, October 11 in Johannesburg, South Africa at FNB Stadium, before continuing with additional stops in Delhi, India, Seoul, Korea, Sanya, Hainan, China, and Tokyo, Japan. Scott's CIRCUS MAXIMUS WORLD TOUR originally kicked off October 2023 and included 76 sold-out stops across North America, Europe, UK, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand throughout 2023 and 2024. The tour concluded as the highest grossing rap tour in history with $209.3 million and 1.7 million tickets sold.
Gulf Insider
02-07-2025
- Gulf Insider
Yas Waterworld Adds 20+ New Rides in Abu Dhabi
Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, has officially opened the doors to its highly anticipated expansion — adding over 13,445sqm of attractions. The newly launched area, dubbed the 'Lost City,' builds on the waterpark's storytelling legacy of The Legend of the Lost Pearl and includes more than 20 new rides, slides and experiences. The expanded destination was unveiled in a ceremony attended by Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. This launch brings Yas Waterworld's total offering to more than 60 rides and attractions — making it one of the most extensive waterparks in the region. Key highlights of the new expansion include several rides debuting in the Middle East for the first time: Al Falaj Race: The region's first side-by-side duelling tube raft ride Bahamut's Rage: A dramatic log flume experience with high-impact splashes Al Sahel Junior: The region's first mini zero-gravity boomerango designed especially for younger guests Al Mafras: A desert-themed water slide with a splash landing. Red Dunes: A twisting enclosed aqua tube built for younger thrill-seekers Dawwama Junior: A child-friendly version of the iconic vortex ride Mataha Madness: A family raft ride with disorienting spins and surprises Sadaf Swirl: The region's first high-speed raft ride with spin-powered thrills The new zone also features a brand-new dining venue. Also Read: Dubai Airshow 2025 Opens Registration With New Night Events, Runway Networking, And Focus On Innovation
Gulf Insider
26-06-2025
- Gulf Insider
UAE Flights: Air Arabia Starts Resuming Operations
Sharjah-based airline Air Arabia confirmed on Wednesday that it has started resuming operations on previously suspended flights. 'As regional airspace continues to open, Air Arabia is gradually resuming operations. Customers are advised to visit to check the latest updates and their flight status. Affected passengers will be notified directly via SMS and email,' the airline said. 'Air Arabia remains fully committed to the safety of our customers and crew, and we appreciate your patience and understanding during this period,' the airline added. In an earlier update, the airline said it had temporarily suspended all flights to and from Iran, Iraq, Russia, Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan until June 30. Jordan flights were on hold until June 26. Earlier today, Dubai-based carrier flydubai said it will resume operations to the Syrian capital from June 26, 2025. This move comes as more airspace in the region reopens and restrictions are lifted. The carrier plans to resume its full schedule across the network from July 1, following the completion of all necessary assessments. 'This remains a developing situation, and both flight and network planning are continuously reviewed, with flydubai operating within approved international air corridors and adjusting frequencies as required,' the airline said. In Abu Dhabi, Etihad flights to Tel Aviv, will remain suspended until July 15, the Abu Dhabi-based airline said. Meanwhile, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has cancelled flights to and from the UAE until June 30, in line with a similar move by Hungarian carrier Wizz Air. Dubai's flagship carrier, Emirates, announced on Tuesday that its regularly scheduled flight operations have fully resumed, experiencing only 'minimal disruptions'. Also read: Qatar Airways CEO Reveals Details Behind Travel Recovery: 151 Disrupted Flights, 20,000 Passengers Diverted Mid-Air, 35,000 Meals for Stranded Passengers
