Four Gulf states are to collaborate to attract more cruise calls in the region.
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain and Oman have joined forces under the Cruise Arabia umbrella to run joint promotional initiatives at trade shows, exhibitions and other events.
They aim to showcase the area as a “premier destination” for cruise tourism.
The cruise terminal in Abu Dhabi, with a capacity for up to three large cruise ships, handled more than 700,000 visitors in the 2022-23 season.
An upgraded jetty at Sir Bani Yas island has also doubled passenger capacity and improved disembarkation.
Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi tourism director general, Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, said: “We are collectively committed to championing cruise tourism reflecting our firm belief in the power of partnerships.
“With the emirate’s state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal and the region’s only dedicated cruise stopover beach on Sir Bani Yas Island, cruise tourism is an important pillar in our tourism strategy and an additional platform to welcome visitors to explore Abu Dhabi’s array of unique attractions and experiences.
“With the invaluable support of our partners, we are dedicated to advancing the UAE’s tourism industry, while preserving Abu Dhabi’s legacy and promoting its diverse cultural heritage.”
Meanwhile, a promotional agreement between Abu Dhabi and Hotelbeds has been extended into a third year to develop targeted campaigns to increase the emirate’s visibility and appeal among travel agents.