Dubai has been chosen by Crystal Cruises as the location for the company’s flagship liner to make its maiden voyage in the region after an extensive refurbishment. The decision to make Dubai the location for the regional debut of the liner’s sophisticated new look further cements the Emirate’s position as the region’s leading cruise destination, and the location of choice for winter cruise tourists from around the world.
Dubai’s cruise industry started in 2001 with the opening of the first cruise terminal in the Gulf but it is only now that it is fast becoming a favored destination amongst the international cruise lines and cruise tourists. The emirate is now serving over 20 world-class cruise lines, including Crystal Cruises, the world’s most awarded cruise line.
Mr. Hamad Bin Mejren, Senior Vice President, Dubai Tourism, was present to welcome the liner to region and commented: “We are delighted that Crystal Symphony will be making the regional debut of its redesign in Dubai. With the city fast developing into a leading cruise hub, Dubai Cruise Tourism’s goal is to position the emirate as a cruise tourism destination of choice. The continued investment is paying dividends, as we are seeing a steady increase in visitors opting to commence their international cruise itinerary in Dubai, and for pre, or post-cruise stays, in the city. Dubai’s unique position as one of the only winter sun cruise destinations, and the city’s unrivaled tourism offerings, also makes it an attractive option for all visitors including the high-end cruise tourists, traveling aboard the newly refurbished Crystal Symphony liner.”
With year-round sunshine and an ever-evolving ‘must-visit’ destination proposition, Dubai is perfectly placed for its cruise tourism offering to become a major global attraction. The city is the winter home port for multiple international cruise lines operating regular international itineraries out of Dubai; 625,000 cruise tourists visited Dubai during the 2016/2017 season, reflecting an increase of over 15 per cent when compared to the 2015/2016 season. Dubai’s cruise industry is also set for another strong performance during the recently launched 2017/2018 season.
