Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, and Oman have partnered up to from a new mutual support organization to help develop ports of call along the Arabian Gulf and enhance the region’s leisure cruising infrastructure. The alliance, which was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding and announced at ITB Berlin, aims to scale up investments in port infrastructure, improve the overall passenger experience, and entice additional cruise companies to expand into the Middle East region. Additionally, the partners will work together on joint marketing efforts both regionally and internationally to position the Arabian Gulf as a top global cruise destination and ultimately boost the overall tourism sectors within each participating city and country.
Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing, highlighted the strategic importance of this new alliance, stating that it will reinforce Dubai’s position as the cruise hub of the region. This aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to consolidate the city’s status as one of the top three global destinations for business and leisure travelers.
Dubai plays a pivotal role in the alliance, leveraging its world-class infrastructure and superior air and sea connectivity. In the 2022-2023 season, Dubai Harbour, one of the emirate’s two existing cruise ports, received 300,000 passengers, a significant increase from its debut season. This growth underscores Dubai’s capacity to handle large volumes of cruise tourists and its strategic location as a gateway to the Arabian Gulf’s fledgling cruise market.
Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, Director General of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, also emphasized the collective commitment to championing cruise tourism, reflecting a firm belief in the power of regional partnerships.
This initiative is expected to have a substantial economic impact, benefiting not only the cruise tourism sector but also the broader economies of the member countries as enhanced port infrastructure and increased cruise traffic generate significant new revenues, create jobs, and stimulate local businesses on land as well.
