Dubai will serve as the home base for Resorts World One as it launches a series of cruises across the UAE, Oman, and Qatar.
Resorts World Cruises has announced its expansion into the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman by stationing Resorts World One in Dubai for six months.
Beginning on 18 October 2024, Resorts World One will operate from Dubai and offer the following cruises:
•Two-night weekend cruise to Sir Bani Yas, departing on Fridays
•Three-night cruise to Oman, visiting Khasab and Muscat, departing on Sundays
•Two-night cruise to Doha, departing on Wednesdays
Dubai’s cruise industry
Guests will have the flexibility to combine two or all three of these itineraries, allowing for four, five, or seven-night cruises.
Resorts World One will also use Doha as a homeport during the Qatar school holidays from 24 October to 2 November 2024.
During this period, passengers can embark from Doha for two-night cruises to Dubai (departing on 24 and 31 October) and five-night cruises to Dubai, Khasab, and Muscat (departing on 26 October and 2 November).
Michael Goh, President of Resorts World Cruises, said: “We are thrilled to introduce the Resorts World Cruises brand to the Arabian Gulf with the Resorts World One cruise ship.”
“As an international cruise line rooted in Asia, we bring decades of expertise in the cruise and hospitality sectors, particularly in catering to diverse ethnic and religious markets.”
“Both Dubai and Doha are crucial international gateways to the Middle East, and with the support of local governments, authorities, and travel partners, we are eager to further develop cruises in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.”
Resorts World Cruises operates cruises from homeports in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Indonesia. Resorts World One is expected to make 75 stops in the region, accommodating 150,000 passengers over the six-month period, which will significantly boost cruise tourism in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
The resort will attract a new demographic of cruise passengers from Asia, enhancing the diversity of the Arabian Gulf cruise market.
Dubai Strengthens Global Business and Leisure Status, says Saud Hareb Almheiri
Saud Hareb Almheiri, Cruise Tourism and Yachting Lead at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “Under the guidance of our visionary leadership, Dubai continues to solidify its status as a leading global city for business and leisure, aligned with the goals of our Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.”
“By choosing Dubai as their homeport and first destination in the Middle East, Resorts World Cruises has reinforced Dubai’s position as the cruise capital of the region.”
“With its strategic location, diverse destinations, world-class infrastructure, ease of access, and superior air connectivity, Dubai has become a key element of international cruise itineraries. This development will drive increased visitation, enrich the tourism landscape, and contribute to the city’s economic growth.”
Abdullah Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Sir Bani Yas Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most stunning hidden treasures, offering complete immersion in nature and wildlife, providing a serene stopover for cruise passengers.”
“With the addition of family-friendly adventure activities, the island offers varied and memorable experiences that will excite all types of visitors. We look forward to welcoming travellers to the island, inspiring them to return and explore the full array of wonders that Abu Dhabi and its cruise routes have to offer.”
Resorts World One will operate from the Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal at Mina Rashid.
Muslim cruise passengers will be a key market segment, and to cater to them, Resorts World One will receive the official OIC/SMIIC standard halal-friendly cruise ship certification. This will ensure regional Muslim travellers have access to certified halal-friendly offerings onboard the ship.