Dubai (Union)
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Border Security Council, witnessed the celebration that was held yesterday evening at Port Rashid in Dubai on the occasion of naming the newest cruise ships of the international fleet of MSC Cruises, following the ancient maritime traditions regarding the celebration. By giving the name to any new ship before launching it in the traditional way, marking its entry into service and the start of its sea voyages.
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stressed that the history of Dubai was linked to the sea and its activities, which constitute an important aspect of its cultural heritage, while this relationship developed thanks to the development of the most important seaports in the region, which strengthened its position as a major center for trade, as well as For marine tourism, which encouraged international companies specialized in this field of tourism to organize their trips to and from Dubai, a demand that is increasing; Thanks to the safe atmosphere that guarantees the safety of tourists, the great efficiency of the maritime customs ports, and the advanced infrastructure that ensures complete ease of completing the procedures for passengers.
International movie star Sophia Loren announced that the new ship will be named “MSC Virtusa”, in accordance with maritime tradition, marking the 17th time that the international star has participated in naming ships belonging to MSC Cruises.
The ceremony was held in the presence of the captain of the ship, captain Francesco Venero, and a number of officials and members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of travel agencies and the media.
Choosing Dubai to host the event comes in appreciation of the group’s commitment to the emirate, as well as to the UAE in general. The celebration reflects Dubai’s growing position as a preferred destination for cruise tourists from around the world, and confirms the role of this marine sector in raising tourism growth rates in Dubai.
Top tourist destinations
Sultan bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DB World Group, said: “We are proud to host the naming ceremony for the MSC Virtuza at Mina Rashid, which has established itself as a leading regional and international destination for cruise ships. The port’s advanced facilities, its ability to accommodate large numbers of passengers, and its distinguished strategic location, advantages that qualified it to win a large number of prestigious awards, the latest of which was winning the award (the leading tourist port in the Middle East) at the World Travel Awards 2021, which we received for the 14th year Straight”.
Hilal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, said: “Dubai continues to consolidate its global tourism position and play its pivotal role as the capital of cruises in the region, in light of the inspiring vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. The ruler of Dubai, may God bless him, aims to make Dubai the best city in the world to live, work and visit.”
Gulf expansion
Pierfrancesco Fago, CEO of MSC Cruises, said: “We are honored to establish this distinguished nautical tradition in Dubai, during the year of the UAE’s golden jubilee. This step reflects our continued commitment to the region, as we have sought to make Dubai the main berth for the new MSC Vertosa for the winter season.”
The ship is scheduled to depart from Dubai after the naming ceremony on its maiden voyage across the Gulf, with a group of guests on board today.
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