Sailing through the Arabian Gulf unfolds a mystique world, where history and modernity peacefully coexist. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are bustling microcosms, peacefully shared by cultures from all corners of the world. If shopping is your thing, there is no better place to visit than Dubai.

Muscat boasts beautifully manicured parks, long, unspoiled stretches of beach, and an ancient stone moat that surrounds the area.For the explorer, the rich culture and beauty of India will make your cruise holiday an unforgettable one. Our Arabian Gulf cruise is the perfect holiday getaway for you.

Itineraries

Itineraries that sail in the Arabian Gulf mainly depart from Abu Dhabi & Dubai and call into ports around the Arabian Sea and Red Sea. Some itineraries depart from the south eastern Mediterranean offering a longer and more diverse cruise option. These are mainly repositioning cruises when cruise ships are relocated to the Middle East for the winter season and include several days at sea. The most popular Arabian Gulf cruise destinations are the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, India and Jordan. Cruises in the Arabian Gulf mainly offer 7-night itineraries with overnights in Dubai, Muscat and Abu Dhabi. The India cruise itineraries range from 12 – 14 Nights.

The Arabian Gulf is famous for sunshine all year round. The main cruising season is in winter, from December through March when the weather is mild. Repositioning cruises usually take place in October and November and again in March and April when the season ends.

Cruise Lines

Popular cruise lines sailing this winter in the Arabian Gulf are MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises.

Ports in the Arabian Gulf

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The sleek and modern capital of U.A.E. presents a fascinating mixture of tradition and progression. Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the main attraction of Abu Dhabi, is an architectural beauty. It is the world’s largest mosques, with a capacity for an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. Don’t miss the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – the world’s first Ferrari theme park and the largest attraction of its kind. The park tells the Ferrari story with passion and excitement through more than 20 exhilarating and educational rides and attractions, interactive shopping and authentic Italian dining experiences. The other attractions include the Al-Hosn Palace used by the Cultural Foundation, the beautiful Capital Garden of the Corniche, and the Women’s Craft Centre where you will be able to shop for some very detailed souvenirs.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a cosmopolitan oasis, admired for its untiring vigor, gusty ambition and the ability to dream up and realise projects. This is a city of superlatives that has birthed the tallest building (Burj Khalifa), only 7-star hotel (the Burj al-Arab), largest artificial islands (the Palm Islands), the world’s largest dancing fountain; a huge indoor Ski paradise and many more unbelievable places. With the city gearing up to showcase many more grand projects for World Expo 2020, visiting Dubai now may feel like a trip to the future. Explore the souk bazaars for gold and silks, Persian and Afghani rugs and more. And be sure to visit the Jumeirah Mosque to get a glimpse of the cultural side of Dubai.

Muscat, Oman

The capital of Oman has undergone rapid urbanization in recent times. But a glimpse of Muscat’s past shows the old houses lining the Mutrah corniche above the harbor, and in the traditional market souks. The Sultan’s Palace and the National Museum are the main attractions in the city. Muscat offers a chance to indulge in Amonage or Ubar perfumes produced here, which are the world’s most expensive.

DAMMAM, Saudi

Dammam is known for its airy waterfronts and sandy beaches and has a growing reputation as an arts, sports and entertainment destination. Due to the heaby influence of frequent travelers, this city’s cuisine has an international flavour to it, and its urban landscape is marked by a striking contrast of modern and historic architecture. Dammam is also the coastal gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Ahsa, home to one of the world’s largest natural oases and an intricate cave system.

Jeddah, Saudi

Visitors can travel back in time walking through the streets of Al Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO World Heritage recognized Hijazi style old town, or stroll down the waterfront corniche and take time to admire the world’s tallest fountain. Jeddah, the commercial center of Saudi Arabia is a vibrant hub combining heritage and modernity. Jeddah is also the principal gateway to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, located just 65 km to the east

Doha, Qatar

Doha is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf in the east of the country. It has an impressive collection of architecture for such a small desert peninsula, home to marvels of symmetry like the IM Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art, and the National Museum of Qatar, which was designed by Jean Nouvel and is as awe-inspiring inside as out. Doha is a traditional and determinedly modern, a vibrant hub of art, culture and untouched desert landscapes.

There are many more Arabian Gulf Cruise ports waiting to amuse you. Check out our Gulf cruises from Dubai and Abu Dhabi for more information on these bustling destinations.