Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) has hosted a familiarisation tour for international cruise line representatives on Sir Bani Yas Island, showcasing the very first beach stopover destination in the Arabian Gulf.

The tour gave the cruise line decision makers the opportunity to spend time on the beach which will be developed expressly for cruise ships. They also had a chance to experience Sir Bani Yas Island’s picturesque landscapes and many tourist attractions, including its unique wildlife and leisure offerings, ranging from safaris and mountain biking to kayaking, horse riding, deep sea fishing and snorkelling.

ADPC used the tour as a chance to discuss the specific needs of the cruise lines and their passengers with the representatives who welcomed the island stopover and gave valuable feedback for the upcoming development stages.

The plans, which are still under discussion, include infrastructure works and wooden board walks around the island, BBQ facilities, hammocks, cabanas along the beach, dining and visitor facilities, as well as a dedicated information centre for cruise staff and tourists.

Additional beach, sports and watersports facilities, including an aqua park, boat tours and wildlife excursions exclusively offered to cruise tourists are also being discussed to become part of the visitor experience.

“As the cruise business in Abu Dhabi has been growing significantly over the past years, ADPC is very keen on creating additional tourist sights and destinations for cruise visitors,” said Noura Al Dhaheri, ADPC’s cruise terminal manager.

“As a result, the new stopover on Sir Bani Yas Island will add significantly to Abu Dhabi’s cruise offerings, it’s the only such destination in the region and will be a compelling feature for the cruise line itineraries.

“This trip was an important opportunity to hear the cruise line representatives’ feedback and thoughts.  This has been our business strategy every step of the way - with the new cruise terminal and now the island stopover – to ensure we develop this important industry in collaboration with the cruise lines to meet and indeed exceed the requirements of the passengers and ships,” she added.

Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the largest natural islands in the UAE and has been a popular leisure destination for many years. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, as well as its untouched wildlife which includes some of Arabia’s rarest species. – TradeArabia News Service