Cruise Terminal: Your Complete Guide
Navigating Abu Dhabi's public transportation? Here's your complete guide to Cruise Terminal.
Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal is the region's premier cruise passenger facility located at Zayed Port (Mina Zayed), serving as a leading international cruise hub. In 2023, the terminal won World Cruise Awards recognition as both "World's Best Cruise Terminal" and "Middle East's Best Cruise Terminal," cementing its position as a global benchmark for cruise operations.
Terminal Facilities
Cruise Terminal 1 (Original)
- Historic original cruise facility
Cruise Terminal 2 (Launched Q4 2022)
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Modern expansion significantly increasing capacity
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Handles 3+ cruise vessels simultaneously
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7,000+ passenger capacity per visit
Infrastructure
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Terminal size: Approximately 800 sq meters (8,600 sq feet)
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Capacity: Can process 7,000+ passengers at once
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Facilities: State-of-the-art infrastructure meeting international standards
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Mezzanine services: Souvenir shops, bars, restaurants, crew waiting areas
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Tourist information: Comprehensive visitor orientation services
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Security systems: Modern security and passenger screening
Services & Amenities
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Free WiFi: Throughout terminal
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Etihad Airways check-in: City check-in service for Etihad
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Airline services: Check-in facilities for major international airlines
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Tourist information counters: Local travel guidance
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Currency exchange: Foreign exchange services
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Restaurants & bars: Dining and beverage options
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Retail shops: Souvenir and gift retail
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Crew facilities: Dedicated crew spaces and amenities
Awards & Recognition
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2023 World Cruise Awards: World's Best Cruise Terminal
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2023 World Cruise Awards: Middle East's Best Cruise Terminal
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International accreditation: Meeting global terminal standards
Cruise Partnerships
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MSC Cruises: Long-term preferential berthing agreement (signed Feb 2020)
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Major cruise lines: Serving all major international cruise operators
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Strategic positioning: Key hub for eastern Mediterranean and Middle East cruises
Cruise Volume
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2019: 47% passenger growth, 45% ship call increase over 2018
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2020-2023: Growth projections to 808,000 annual passengers by 2025
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Historical: Approximately 345,000 passengers in 2016-2017 season
Location & Accessibility
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Zayed Port: Strategic maritime location
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Public transportation: Well-connected to transit links
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City proximity: Central Abu Dhabi location with convenient access
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: 20-minute drive
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Cultural attractions: Easy access to Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi
Visitor Experience
Passengers can enjoy:
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Comprehensive terminal services
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Tourist orientation for Abu Dhabi attractions
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Shopping and dining opportunities
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Convenient transportation connections
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Warm Arabian hospitality
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Access to world-class Abu Dhabi attractions
Photography Tips
Cruise ships, terminal architecture, passenger activity, maritime operations, and waterfront settings provide dynamic photography opportunities.