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Oman ports are to host the world's largest
cruise line, plus 32,000 tourists, in a new partnership with Abu Dhabi and Dubai
branded the Cruise Arabia alliance.
The Ministry of Tourism Oman (Oman Tourism), Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture
Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) and the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM)
have teamed up in a bid to increase the number of cruise tourists and to raise
awareness of the Gulf as a cruise destination, it was revealed recently.
And in response, Royal Caribbean International, the largest global cruise line,
has announced its return to the Gulf in winter 2015-16 with its Splendour of the
Seas scheduled to dock in Muscat and Khasab, along with Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Khalid Al Zadjali, Director of Tourism Events at the Oman Ministry of Tourism,
said: "We are delighted to learn that the luxurious Royal Caribbean
International cruises will be returning to the region.
"We look forward to welcoming all tourists who want to explore the beauty of
Oman and discover its history. There are numerous activities to enjoy in our
country, and limitless places to visit, including Muscat and Khasab, which will
be included in the itinerary of the cruises.
"This is definitely a welcomed development for Oman as our country steps up its
efforts to strengthen its presence in the lucrative global cruise industry in
the GCC and internationally. We anticipate hosting more cruise ships in the
future."
Helen Beck, Regional Director, International Representatives, EMEA, Royal
Caribbean International, said: "I would like to express our thanks to the cruise
tourism officials from the DTCM, TCA Abu Dhabi and Oman's Ministry of Tourism
for their support and congratulate them on the formation of the Cruise Arabia
alliance. |
