Abu Dhabi Set for Record-Breaking Cruise Season: A Look Ahead to 2025-2026
Abu Dhabi is set to experience a record cruise season in 2025-2026, with expectations of 174 cruise ship calls at its two cruise terminals, marking a 27% increase from the previous year. This surge follows last year’s impressive reception of approximately 700,000 cruise arrivals, earning Abu Dhabi the title of World’s Best Cruise Destination for 2025 from the World Cruise Awards.
The rise in cruise calls reflects the emirate’s strategic initiatives to position itself as a major cruise hub through collaborations with regional and international cruise operators and improved destination development efforts. New tools for the travel trade, including a certified e-learning platform and a reseller portal for attractions, are designed to create integrated pre- and post-cruise itineraries, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Abu Dhabi’s cruise infrastructure features two main facilities. The primary embarkation point is the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port, conveniently located near cultural highlights. Additionally, the Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach, situated on the UAE’s largest natural island, offers a unique beach cruise terminal experience characterized by natural beauty and recreational activities.
The growth trajectory of Abu Dhabi’s cruise sector is further supported by long-term commitments from cruise lines, including steady homeport agreements and regular returns from major operators. This indicates a strong belief in the potential of the market.
This expansion aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract nearly 40 million visitors annually by the end of the decade.
For further details on Abu Dhabi’s cruise industry, visit CruiseMapper’s Abu Dhabi Port Page and related news updates.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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