Dubai Harbour will have a second cruise terminal in addition to the one already revealed in January 2017, developer Meraas has announced.

This new announcement means that Dubai Harbour will be the first cruise destination to build two terminals simultaneously and when completed will accommodate 1.2-million cruise passengers annually.

The addition of a second terminal is intended to build on Dubai’s reputation as a leading cruise tourism destination, while capitalising on strong growth in the cruise industry globally.

Industry data suggests that over 40 million people will travel by cruise annually by 2030, up 40 percent from 24 million in 2017.

“Dubai Harbour connects some of Dubai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods and also reaffirms our commitment to expanding on Dubai’s rich maritime heritage and tourism profile, while supporting the continued diversification of the national economy,” said Abdulla Al Habbai, Group Chairman at Meraas.

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Dubai Harbour will integrate Skydive Dubai, Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) and Logo Island into a single community.

Each cruise terminal will be approximately 14,000 square metres in size with one single apron of 900-metres. While other ports have multiple terminals, none have so far built more than one at any given time.

Meanwhile, in addition to serving the cruise ship industry, Dubai Harbour will feature the largest marina in the MENA region. Once complete, the marina will have 1,100-berths capable of accommodating some of the world’s biggest private yachts.

The masterplan for the unique waterfront destination extends over 20 million square feet and includes an 875,000 square-foot shopping mall, an events arena, luxury residences, restaurants, cafes, hotels and a yacht club.

It will also feature the Dubai Lighthouse, an architectural marvel stretching 135 metres into the sky with an observation deck offering stunning panoramic views.

Ground has been broken and 130,000 square metres of land has been reclaimed. The contractor for the cruise terminal will be appointed once the land for the terminal is ready, with Dubai Habour being constructed in phases.