Historic QE2 in Dubai to close till September due to Coronavirus

UAE

The historic QE2, docked permanently at Dubai’s Mina Rashid, will temporarily close on Thursday as the new coronavirus delivered a new blow to the emirate's tourism industry.

The luxury liner - which has been restored to her former glory and serves as a tourism destination - will shut from midday on Thursday until September 1.

In a statement, it was announced that the vessel and all of its on board facilities will be unavailable as part of measures to combat the spread of the virus, known as Covid-19.

The announcement comes as the UAE has so far reported a total of 113 infections.

"After careful consultation and deliberation, the senior leadership team has decided to close the hotel and all of its facilities to further progress on the existing renovation plans during the anticipated low season," the statement added.

"We wish all of our passengers, navigators, fans and partners to stay safe during this time."

The closure comes just weeks after the Queen Elizabeth 2 launched a special heritage tour that takes visitors on a journey through the ‘bridge’ – the command room used by the captain to control the ship during its days of service.

Once reserved only for access by senior crew and VVIPs visiting the ship, the QE2’s Bridge is now open for daily tours to the public on for the first time since launching in 1967.