Growth in the global shipping industry looks set to strengthen tourism relations between the UAE and Singapore, with the two terminals of developing countries are expected to meet increasing demand, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said.

Earlier this month, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing announced that the emirate of new cruise terminal, which can accommodate four boats at once, will be ready for business in January 2010.

Opening of Dubai terminal is expected to increase the number of cruise passengers entering the emirate from 260,000 to 380,000 per year, exceeding analysts’ forecast of six percent annual global growth for 2020.

At the same time Singapore has broken ground on International Cruise Terminal (ICT), which after completion in 2011, will double the capacity of the city dock. Cruise passenger throughput has grown steadily, the average enrollment rate of 12% annual growth between 2003 and 2008.

Industry remained strong in the middle of an economic downturn, saw 20 percent growth in arrivals in the first half of 2009 compared to the same period last year, according to STB figures.

It is estimated that Singapore would be welcomed by one million cruise ship passengers at the end of the year. Singapore aims to welcome 1.6 million cruise ship passengers in 2015.

“Asia, with a variety of landscapes, warm hospitality and fast multi-cultural appeal is shipping a new play. Leveraging both our air, land and sea connectivity, we aim to make Singapore regional shipping centers and more welcoming travelers from the Middle East,” said Jason Ong, Area Director Middle East and Africa, STB.

“The new cruise terminal in Dubai and Singapore will help meet the growing demand from travelers and tourist areas to strengthen the relationship between the two cities. Travelers Singapore offers a holiday destination very well, with the family friendly attractions, luxury hotels, lush nature and the urban some of the best shopping places in the world, “he added.

In line with market trends Royal Caribbean International has announced a 13-night voyage from Dubai to Singapore departing November 4 – followed by the launch schedule for the Middle East starting in January 2010 in Dubai.

Lakshmi Durai, Executive Director of Royal Caribbean Middle East said:

“Dubai and Singapore are both rapidly up the cruise hub. We are very fortunate to be working very closely with this port, because both have shown tremendous support for the growth of the cruise industry in their respective markets.”

“Improvement of new and impressive cruise ship terminals Royal Caribbean International that will provide future visitors with a truly class experience from beginning to end,” added Durai.

Singapore ICT will become a world-class development strategically located in the new downtown city lifestyle and financial center is home to a new recreation and entertainment attractions, such as the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay SandsTM, Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Barrage.

ICT in the water, turning basin and the lack of high restriction, the world’s largest ship, such as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Sea is being built now, will be able to call in Singapore and enjoy a dedicated cruise terminal.