The Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal (DHCT) is at the forefront of scripting a spectacular comeback of cruise tourism with 46 ship calls, in the region as well as globally. The terminal, located at the intersection of Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters, is expecting to serve over 300,000 visitors, a four-fold increase from last year’s 70,000 tourists, this year.
The DHCT, Inaugurated in November 2021, is the largest standalone cruise terminal in the eastern hemisphere. It has been steadily expanding in its capacity, with the terminal now ready to host massive ships that can accommodate up to 5,500 passengers. On an average day, the terminal has around 120 staff members on ground for a ship’s arrival. While team KT was visiting, the ship AIDAcosma arrived at the terminal.
The liner, with a capacity of 5,500 passengers, has an impressive 20 passenger decks and 2,600 state rooms. There are 17 restaurants, a fun park with water slides, a spa, a theatrium, a gym, a disco and a club for youngsters in the ship that has become a firm favourite among couples and families with children. The team at DHCT also handle 35,000 pieces of luggage during an average weekend.
Once the ship arrives, the quiet terminal is a flung into a flurry of activity that sees border control, airlines and immigration working alongside the DHCT to ensure a seamless travel experience.
Visitors can get through security, customs and immigration before heading off to explore the city. A wide array of tour operators and tourist buses are stationed outside the terminal to whisk away those who arrive to their location of choice.
