Cruise passengers that hold passports from countries that are currently unable to obtain a tourist visa on arrival, will now be allowed to enter the UAE frequently over a three month period from the date of issue.

They can stay for a period of 14 days from the date of entry while the cruise lines and their agents will act as visa sponsors.

The news has been given an enthusiastic welcome by stakeholders in Abu Dhabi’s expanding cruise industry.

It comes at an opportune time as Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) prepares to mount a destination promotion at SeaTrade Med, the Cruise and Superyacht exhibition and conference being held in Marseille, France later this month as per a report in Tradearabia.

“This new visa rule will provide opportunities for passengers to return and experience more of Abu Dhabi and has the potential to attract new cruise passengers from strong emerging markets such as Russia, China and India,” said Noura Al Dhaheri, Leisure Product Development manager, TCA Abu Dhabi.

“We anticipate it being a strong talking point among operators at the Marseille event.”

Abu Dhabi has experienced significant growth in cruise arrivals in the past six years and expects to receive 180,000 passengers from 88 vessels in the current 2012/2013 season – generating 19 per cent more passengers from 14 extra arrivals on last season – up from just 35,000 passengers from 29 arrivals in 2006/2007.

“We are on-track to welcome over 100 vessels and around 250,000 passengers per season by 2014/2015, from a cruise market currently dominated by European arrivals,” added Al Dhaheri.

“A multiple-entry visit visa for cruise tourists will make it easier for us compete more effectively with other destinations, as well as extend length of stay and provide valuable additional business for our hotel and supporting ancillary tourism providers.”

(You need to login first to read complete news).
New User? Register for FREE!
» Back to Travel News