Abu Dhabi opened its first purpose-built cruise terminal at Port Zayed. Authorities believe it will be an enabler of cruise traffic into the emirate as part of its economic diversification drive.

The facility was inaugurated by Shaikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor and Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, in the presence of Shaikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, chairman of Transport Department, senior officials of the Tourism and Culture Authority Abu Dhabi and officials from different government agencies.

The facility took one year for completion. It is being dubbed as a landmark achievement for the growth of cruise tourism in the emirate.

Abu Dhabi was opened to the cruise industry in 2006-’07, said Captain Mohammed Juma Al Shamisi, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Abu Dhabi Ports, which is responsible for the development of ports and industrial zones. Details