The Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has announced the resumption of cruise liners in Abu Dhabi starting from 1st September, 2021, after months of closure in 2020 due to the COVID-19 precautionary measures.

In 2019, maritime tourism in Abu Dhabi witnessed impressive growth, resulting in a record-breaking year for the sector. Around 500,000 cruise visitors arrived in the Emirate’s ports throughout the year which marked a 46 per cent increase compared to 2018. Similarly, the number of cruise calls witnessed a rise of 43 per cent in 2019 to reach a total of 192.

“We are delighted to welcome all cruise liners back to Abu Dhabi after a challenging year. This comes as part of the efforts to enliven the Emirate’s tourism sector after the impressive results we have achieved in combatting the spread of the pandemic, and yet another step towards strengthening the UAE capital’s position as a world-class hub for maritime tourism. We will continue to work closely with our partners at Abu Dhabi Ports to further boost the maritime tourism sector and attract more businesses and tourists providing them with unparalleled services and experiences while exploring Abu Dhabi and its diverse offerings.” said Ali Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism and Marketing at DCT Abu Dhabi.

Noura Rashed Al Dhaheri, Managing Director - Cruise Business, Abu Dhabi Ports, said, “We are well prepared to receive and welcome vaccinated visitors to the UAE’s capital once again and are excited to see the resumption of cruise activities at both Zayed Port and Sir Bani Yas Island.”

“In line with Abu Dhabi’s health protocols for international arrivals, Abu Dhabi Ports is initiating various health and safety measures to protect passengers and crew, which includes daily sterilisation activities across the terminal, the requirement of PCR testing before embarkation, as well as the implementation of a comprehensive emergency response plan for handling positive cases within the terminal.”

 “Cruise passengers visiting Abu Dhabi can be assured that every measure to safeguard their health and safety during their stay is being undertaken.” As part of its strategy, DCT Abu Dhabi will be announcing a series of initiatives throughout the year. These include upcoming projects and events, as well as participation in international events as part of its efforts to promote the destination to global audiences.

Tourism 365  launched: Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (Adnec) has launched “Tourism 365” to create experiential travel opportunities for tourists coming to Abu Dhabi, and enhance the emirate’s regional and global positioning in the wider tourism sector.

The launch of the company is in line with Adnec’s new broader role to support the growth of Abu Dhabi as a tourism destination, increasing leisure visitors, enhancing guest experiences, and extending their stay in the UAE’s capital.

The company will work in concert with key stakeholders across Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector and the UAE. It will include Capital Experience, a high-quality destination management company, and Capital Travel, a premium travel operator.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of Adnec, commented, “In launching Tourism 365, Adnec continues to fulfil its strategy in developing Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.

WAM