Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas, one of the biggest ocean liners in the region, set sail from Dubai today. The cruise ship is expected to bring in 32,000 passengers to the region in its first four month season, tapping into the US$25 billion (Dh91.82bn) cruise market.  Brilliance of the Seas can hold about 2,500 guests.

research shows that cruise tourists spend an average of more than $300 per visit, and crew members spend about $150. General manager of the port agent Rais Hassan Saadi Group said the launch of Brilliance of the Seas brings more exposure to Dubai, and more people coming into Dubai and spending money. According to Cruise Lines International Association, over 13 million passengers went on cruises in 2008. The number of visitors to Dubai incre