Dubai Cruise Tourism targets the China market
Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TD, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly
In an effort to tap into the potential Chinese market, Dubai Cruise Tourism is visiting China this week to promote the emirate’s strengths as a cruise tourism destination.
The road show across China will cover Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. The Dubai tourism team will address an audience of top travel trade professionals, alongside representatives from MSC, Costa Crociere and Royal Caribbean International (RCI). China’s tourism professionals will also have the chance to learn more about the UAE multi-entry cruise tourism visa.
The number of Chinese cruise passengers who travel overseas has increased from 160,000 to 660,000 in the last six years, representing a significant growth in demand for cruise travel, and Dubai aims to be part of this growth.
Hamad bin Mejrin, executive director, Dubai Tourism said: “Cruise tourism in China is still a relatively new industry, but it is one with huge developing potential and opportunity. We want to ensure Chinese are made aware of the unique attractions of cruise tourism.”
Chinese tourists entering the country can now apply for the new visa through their cruise line, either at the time or after booking. The visa is valid for 60 days from the date of issue to the first entry into UAE. After the first entry, the visa remains valid for 30 days.
Dubai’s cruise season will see a total of 110 cruise ship calls carrying more than 381,000 passengers arrive in the city. Passenger numbers are set to rise by 19% on the 2013-14 season. This results in an additional 60,000 sea-travellers that will embark, disembark or transit at Mina Rashid, Dubai.
Comments are closed.