Global marine terminal operator DP World has announced plans to expand Port Rashid cruise terminal facilities to continue its leading position as the largest cruise centre in the Middle East.
Port Rashid sits at the heart of Dubai city. Its Dubai Cruise Terminal currently has capacity to serve two ocean-going cruise ships at the same time carrying a combined 7000 passengers. DP World will expand the current terminal facilities by the end of 2012 to cater for as many as five cruise ships at one time. DP World's plan is for Port Rashid to eventually be able to serve as many as seven cruise vessels at one time.
Cruise tourism has been growing rapidly. Dubai Cruise Terminal experienced a 30 percent growth in tourist traffic between 2009 and 2010, from 100 ships and 260,000 passengers to 120 ships and more than 390,000 passengers. The pattern is set to continue in 2011, with 135 cruise vessel calls and 475,000 passengers.
