The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority has confirmed that a new cruise terminal is now in place at Mina Zayed. The tented terminal can accommodate up to 1,300 passengers.

The terminal has been constructed at the same location where the ADTA visitor information used to be and is meant to cater for increased demand during the next two years’ cruise seasons.

It comprises of two departure/arrival halls and spans some 2,000 square metres. It was constructed in partnership with Abu Dhabi Terminals and the Abu Dhabi Ports Company.

One hall will be used for luggage handling. The second is a centre for arriving and departing passengers. There are offices, a security section, a waiting lounge, prayer rooms, currency exchange offices, an information centre and also immigration and customs facilities.

To officially open the new terminal, there will be a welcoming ceremony for the MSC Lirica. The 59,000-ton cruise ship will use Abu Dhabi as its home port from the end of this month. From there it will depart on a series of eight-day/seven-night cruises exploring the Arabian Gulf.

The MSC Lirica has 784 cabins and can accommodate up to 2,200 passengers.

ADTA says the fact that MSC Lirica will from now on be permanently based in Abu Dhabi will significantly boost the port’s cruise traffic. The city has in recent years seen an increase in visits by major cruise liners.

The World Travel Awards recently recognised the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority as the Leading Tourist Board worldwide.