H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, inaugurated AD Ports Group’s cruise jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach.
With the new jetty — equipped with eight mooring dolphins, firefighting equipment, and solar lighting — two vessels will be able to dock at the same time, which will enable more than 5,000 passengers to embark and disembark at an accelerated rate at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach.
The inauguration took place with MSC Virtuosa berthed at Sir Bani Yas Island as part of the ship’s regular seven-night cruises in the Arabian Gulf.
Developed by AD Ports Group, Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach is the first and only dedicated cruise beach of its kind in the region offering a blend of relaxation and adventure to visitors.
Previously, cruise ships set anchor about 1km offshore from the island and visitors were ferried to and from the beach via tender craft.
The new jetty will significantly increase the capacity of the number of visitors to the island, reduce the time it takes to move to and from a vessel, as well as enhance the overall experience for cruise passengers.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region emphasised that with the support of infrastructure and tourism projects, Al Dhafra region continues to work towards enhancing its position in the tourism sector, while also elevating its contribution to the growth of tourism and leisure sectors within the region.
His Highness noted the importance of these projects and their impact on various sectors, especially the private sector, which is of great importance in supporting the continued development of Al Dhafra region and fostering new opportunities.
He said: “Inspired by the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision and Plan Al Dhafra 2030, the opening of this new jetty is a milestone in Al Dhafra’s ambitious development plans. Economic diversification is fundamental to the long-term roadmap for the Emirate’s progress.
“We applaud AD Ports Group’s efforts in fostering this growth through world-class leisure and tourism infrastructure that will not only strengthen tourism across the GCC region but will also further reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier global tourism destination.”
H.E. Falah Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, said: “It is our privilege to welcome H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the opening of the new jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach. We are grateful for his valuable support and contribution to the significant ongoing development of Al Dhafra region.
“The tourism sector, and cruise tourism in particular, plays a key role in driving economic diversification and sustainable development, with a significant impact on local, regional and national economies.
“With the creation of these enhanced facilities, we will be able to welcome more visitors to Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach than ever before and offer a superior disembarkation experience for passengers, raising the profile of Abu Dhabi and the Al Dhafra region in particular for global travellers. Today marks an important step forward in our strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as one of the leading hubs in the world for cruise tourism.”
Several top cruise liners have resumed their cruise activities in Abu Dhabi, while visitors and guests from all over the world have begun to arrive to the UAE’s capital.
Mein Schiff 6, a German TUI-owned cruise ship became the first cruise vessel to arrive at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal in Zayed Port following the commencement of the current cruise season.