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In 2019, 500,000 cruise visitors arrived in the Emirate’s ports, a 46% percent increase compared to 2018
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Abu Dhabi Ports initiating several health and safety measures for passengers and crew
The Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, has announced the resumption of cruise liners in Abu Dhabi starting from 1 September 2021, after months of closure in 2020 as a result of the strict 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% percent increase compared to 2018. Similarly, the number of cruise calls witnessed a rise of 43% in 2019 to reach a total of 192.
“This step comes as part of the leading efforts to enliven the Emirate’s tourism sector after the impressive results we’ve 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,” said Ali Al Shaiba, executive director of tourism and marketing at DCT Abu Dhabi.
NouraRashed Al Dhaheri, MD Cruise Business Abu Dhabi Ports said they were prepared to receive vaccinated visitors to the UAE capital.
“We are excited to see the resumption of cruise activities at both Zayed Port and Sir BaniYas Island. We have implemented a cruise management plan to ensure an efficient, smooth, and safe return to regular cruise operations,” she said.
She added Abu Dhabi Ports is initiating several health and safety measures to protect passengers and crew, which includes daily sterilization 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.