Dubai unveils new cruise port

THE Government of Dubai has announced plans to develop a brand new cruise facility to support growing demand from the sector, located between the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina.

Dubbed ‘Dubai Harbour’, the 186 hectare development will also be home to a 1,400 berth marina (the largest in the Middle East), a shopping mall, events arena, residential buildings, hotels, cafes and restaurants, offices & the ‘Dubai Lighthouse’.

It will also integrate Dubai Int’l Marine Club and Skydive Dubai, with a view to enable the landing strip to be utilised by private jets.

To be developed by Merras and expected to take four years to construct once ground is broken, Dubai Harbour’s cruise terminal will accommodate two vessels and have a capacity of 6,000 pax.

The cruise hub will also offer a range of luxury facilities, leisure, retail and entertainment options.

“The unique destination, which adds a new dimension to Dubai’s flourishing tourism industry, is set to further enhance Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for maritime tourism,” the govt of Dubai said on Mon.

Merras has already commenced talks with four global cruise liners, “with the aim of offering a strong value proposition for this sector”.

The advanced infrastructure and world-class services at Dubai Harbour are expected to stimulate a 100% increase in the number of maritime travellers to Dubai when the project is completed.