Organisers are hoping that they will prove popular and have priced the majority of them at between AED 10 and 30 (£1.75 and £5/$2 and $8) and  to ensure that as many people as possible can afford them.

More than 600 of the world’s leading swimmers are due to compete at the Championships, which are due to open on December 15 and last until December 19.

"The majority of tickets for the Championships are on sale for AED 10-30 and spectators will watch the action at the superb Dubai Sports Complex, a new, state-of-the-art venue with wonderful views from every seat," said Obaid Al Shamsi, the Championships Director.

"They will see some of the best athletes in the world over five days of high-octane racing in the first FINA World Championships ever staged in the Middle East.

"And there will be plenty to see and do for everyone in addition to the racing, with Souk Lane providing an Arabic cultural display, food, live entertainment and activities for children including camel rides and face-painting.

"We believe a ticket to these Championships represents fantastic value for money for the whole family so I am sure the best seats will go fast - just like the swimmers."

The launch of ticket sales was marked by Obaid Al Jasimi, the captain of the United Arab Emirates swimming team, who swam ashore to receive the first ticket from the Championships mascot Ehmisa at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, in the shadow of the spectacular Burj Al Arab, one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks.

"It is so exciting to be so close to such a wonderful Championships," said Al Jasimi.

"The tickets are great value for money and with so many great athletes set to be here in Dubai for the first time at such a great new venue it really will be a superb occasion.

"There will be teams from all over the world taking part in this global event and I hope that as many people as possible come out to scream for their national teams and help to create a beautiful atmosphere at the venue."

Already confirmed as heading to Dubai is a strong Australian squad including multiple Olympic medallists Geoff Huegill, Leisel Jones and Felicity Galvez.

With entries from national swimming federations remaining open until after the European Short Course Swimming Championships in Eindhoven, which end on November 28, the number of star names set to join them is sure to rise as Dubai 2010 draws closer.

It is already likely the number of athletes competing at the new, state-of-the-art Dubai Sports Complex will exceed the previous record mark of 623 set in Manchester two years ago.

The Championships were first held in Palma de Mallorca in Spain in 1993 and since then they have taken place all over the world, including Rio de Janeiro and Shanghai, every alternate year - apart from 1999 and 2000 when they took place two years in a row.

More details are available about booking tickets by clicking here.