Dubai, July 2 (IANS/WAM) After four decades of cruising around the planet, the iconic QE2 -- named after Queen Elizabeth II -- will retire as a liner and will function as a floating hotel in Dubai.

The announcement was made jointly Monday by Istithmar World and the DP World, who promised that the ship that carried over 2,900 passengers on board in each voyage, will now become a tourist destination right in the heart of Dubai, anchoring at the historical Port Rashid.

DP World, a leader in international marine terminal operations, said that it will expand the facilities at the Port Rashid to cater to the increasing demand for marine tourism.

Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem of Istithmar World, the Dubai-based investment firm, said while refurbishing the ship as a 300-room hotel, its original facade and heritage as an iconic cruise liner will be protected.

--IANS/WAM

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