Tourism Breaking News
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced a series of four strategic initiatives during its participation at Seatrade Cruise MED 2024, underscoring its commitment to elevating the emirate’s position as a premier cruise destination. To enhance the visitors experience, DCT Abu Dhabi has introduced a new digital cruise guide, designed to help guests discover Abu Dhabi’s top attractions, hidden gems, and cultural experiences. Accessible via mobile devices, the guide offers curated itineraries and insider tips, ensuring visitors make the most of their time in the UAE capital.
As part of its commitment to improving the experience of all visitors, DCT Abu Dhabi will launch the Cruise Crew Pass, an exclusive benefit for crew members of cruise liners operating in the Arabian Gulf. The pass offers significant discounts, including up to 25% off at 500+ restaurants, shopping discounts at 25+ retail stores, a free UAE SIM card, and complimentary entry to 10+ cultural attractions. The Cruise Crew Pass will be available via a unique invitation code and accessible through the Abu Dhabi Pass App.
DCT Abu Dhabi also announced the addition of new cruise itineraries in the Arabian Gulf, featuring the MSC Euribia, Celestyal Journey, and Resorts World One. These cruises will enhance the region’s cruise offerings and attract a new wave of visitors to Abu Dhabi, further establishing the emirate as a key hub for maritime tourism.
Additionally, DCT Abu Dhabi has revealed a new visitor information centre at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, Zayed Port. The centre will serve as a gateway for cruise visitors, providing essential information, booking assistance, and insights into the emirate’s diverse offerings, enhancing the overall visitor journey from the moment they arrive.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s efforts to improve cruise travel infrastructure are further supported by AD Ports Group, which plays a key role enhancing the overall experience for cruise passengers arriving at Abu Dhabi’s terminals.
Commenting on the introduction of e-gates in their terminals, Noura Rashed Al Dhaheri, Chief Executive Officer of the Cruise Business in AD Ports Group, said: “As part of our strategic efforts to support cruise industry in Abu Dhabi aiming to uplift the quality of services offered within our terminals. and with the rapid growth of our visitors, we’re introducing E-gates starting next season in collaboration with our strategic partners which allow us to handle larger numbers of visitors in a more advanced way. This will improve the efficiency, security, and overall experience as cruise visitors pass through immigration and customs more quickly compared to manual processing. We anticipate a reduction in waiting times, especially during peak periods, and a seamless journey for passengers to embark and disembark with minimal hassle.”
The initiatives presented at Seatrade Cruise MED 2024 align with DCT Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to enhance global partnerships and drive sustained growth in the tourism sector, contributing to the 2030 Tourism Strategy, which aims to attract 39.3 million annual visitors to the emirate by 2030.
This two-day event, this year hosted in Málaga, Spain, is one of the leading cruise industry gatherings in the Mediterranean, drawing over 2,000 visitors and 175+ cruise line professionals from more than 80 countries, and Abu Dhabi was shortlisted as one of the top three finalists for Destination of the Year at the 2024 Seatrade Cruise Awards.
