German cruise liner MS Columbus was the latest of a long line of distinguished ships to berth at the Dubai Cruise Terminal at Port Rashid, recently.

The luxury ship, carrying about 144 passengers mostly German nationals was greeted by the DTCM officials. The liner with 171-crew had about 89 per cent of German nationals aboard. There were passengers from Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg and Austria. The luxury ship arrived from Muscat and sailed to Mumbai.

DTCM Acting Manager Dubai Cruise Terminal, Awadh Al Seghayer said, "the cruise line business has undergone a rapid growth around the world and as a result, the cruise industry in Dubai has further broadened its sphere.

"Due to a massive growth in this sector, there has been a strong demand for new cruise itineraries in different parts of the world and Dubai because of its vivid culture and variety of attractions has become a major cruise destination," said Mr. Al Seghayer.