Countdown to QE2 arrival begins

Dubai: QE2, the world's most famous ocean liner, has now departed from Southampton, UK, on her ultimate voyage to Dubai. She will arrive at Mina Rashid in 15 days, and will then undergo a transformation that will see her become a centre of culture and luxury on the eastern trunk side of Palm Jumeirah.

On arrival in Dubai on Wednesday November 26, QE2 will be greeted at The World islands by a flotilla of local yachts, boats and leisure-craft led by a Royal Navy Frigate. Local yacht and boat owners are encouraged to take part in the 'royal' welcome and accompany QE2 through the Arabian Gulf to Mina Rashid. Those interested in joining the flotilla should register their interest at www.palmjumeirah.ae/QE2Flotilla.

QE2 Southampton departure was marked by a farewell visit from HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the fly-past of a Harrier jump jet, which hovered and bowed to QE2 just 500 feet off her stern. People from all over the UK turned out in force at Southampton docks to bid bon voyage to this most beloved of British icons.

QE2 was purchased last year by Nakheel's parent company, Dubai World, and Nakheel has already commenced construction on a luxury marina development on Palm Jumeirah. QE2 will form the pinnacle of a palatial pier that will stretch 300 metres out from the trunk into the waters of the Arabian Gulf.