Dubai World Chairman tours QE2, discusses refurbishment plans

Mr. Bin Sulayem also met the captain, staff and management of the ocean liner, who are busy preparing for her final voyage to Dubai in November, where she will be transformed into a permanent attraction as a floating hotel, retail and leisure destination at Palm Jumeriah.

The Dubai World chairman also met Mr. Manfred Ursprunger, CEO of QE2 Enterprises, the Dubai World company set up to oversee the refurbishment of the of the ocean liner, and reviewed plans to create an unmatched experience of luxury in Dubai with the QE2 as its centre-piece. He also discussed the installation of a museum dedicated to the celebration of QE2's history and heritage.

Speaking about the historic ship, Mr. Bin Sulayem said: "As a nation with a long maritime history, we value the rich heritage of the QE2. After four decades of glorious service, the most celebrated ship of the 20th century may be considered too old for the seas. But she is not old enough to retire just yet. She is still legendary, and her name continues to evoke dreams."

"That is why Dubai World decided to inherit the QE2 and make a permanent home for her at Palm Jumeirah. This not only provides a sustainable future for one of the brightest stars of the global tourism and leisure industry, but also takes us one step further in making Dubai a truly global tourism destination," he added.

The liner, which is the longest serving vessel in Cunard's 168-year history, was bought by Dubai World company Istithmar World for $100 million last year.

Since its launch by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in September 1967, QE2 has sailed 25 world cruises, crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times, and carried more than 2.5 million passengers, and more than twice the number of nautical miles.

On June 2, the 55th anniversary of the Coronation, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth will make a farewell visit to the ship at Southampton. She has visited the vessel twice earlier in May 1969 prior to its maiden voyage, and then again in July 1990 to mark Cunard Line's 150th anniversary.