Plans to build the emirate city into a booming cruise tourism destination are already playing a hand at attracting more cruisers to Dubai.

Twenty global cruise line operators are expected to sail in with 300,000 cruisers during the 2013/14 season, according to Dubai Cruise Tourism (DCT).

There will be 93 ship calls in total – seven will be maiden calls and will be made by 63 home porting ships including; 27 from Costa Cruises; 17 from Aida; and 19 from MSC Cruises.

Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing director general Helal Saeed Almarri said the region has made commitments and investments to promote the cruise sector, Emirates 24/7 reported.

Investments include the construction of an additional facility at Dubai Cruise Terminals. It will span over 27,000 square meters and allows Dubai to handle passenger turnover of five cruise ships simultaneously.

Gulf port, Mina Rashid DP World director Mohammed Al Mannaei said: ““Dubai is fast becoming a leading cruise destination in the Middle East.”

Meanwhile, neighbouring city, Abu Dhabi also has plans to redevelop part of its Zayed Port. Reconstruction will include the development of a new permanent terminal building and a heritage area with activities for passengers and the public.

Are you heading to Dubai over the 2013/14 cruise season? Leave a comment below and let us know what you’re eager to experience in the growing cruise destination.