TO TOURISM DEVELOPMENT, MIDDLE EASTERN STAKEHOLDERS HAVE EMBRACED THE SEGMENT AND EDGED IT AS PART OF THEIR VISION FOR FUTURE PROSPERITY.
In accordance with Cruise Lines International Association’s study, The Global Economic Contribution of Cruise Tourism, over the decade-long period between 2004 – 2014, demand for cruising worldwide increased from 13.14 million passengers to 22.04 million, indicating a 67.7 percent surge.
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“Cruise tourism is one of the key segments in Dubai, playing a major role in helping to realise Dubai’s Tourism Vision for 2020, which aims to welcome 20 million visitors annually by 2020,” stated Hamad bin Mejren, senior vice president, Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM), who went on to explain that in the 2001/2002 cruise season, the emirate hosted a modest 5,600 passengers and seven ship calls, whereas during the 2014/2015 term, it registered over 455,000 visitors and 107 calls.
Targeting further growth in the industry, Dubai actively explores all opportunities through continuous research and analysis, close collaboration with cruise companies, strategic marketing efforts and investment in infrastructure.
Another noteworthy contestant immersed in the evolvement of its cruise segment, Sharjah has been witnessing a busy period with 35 calls during the 2014/2015 season, bringing around 80,000 travellers to the emirate. Demonstrating the sector’s importance, cruising also forms part of Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority’s (SCTDA) Tourism Vision 2021.
“The success of any location as a cruise tourism destination is closely linked to land-based tourism,” pointed out H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, SCTDA, who emphasised the emirate’s diligent efforts in attracting major international cruise lines.
As Al Midfa explained, in an effort to showcase Sharjah’s rich cultural offering, the authority hosts various heritage events and has a dedicated team in place to offer a warm welcome to passengers by arranging visits to local homes and serving traditional dishes upon arrival.
Furthermore, the organisation also provides shore excursions and site inspections across Sharjah for contracted agents of various cruise liners, and holds direct meetings to ensure that the best possible experience is guaranteed.
