Celestyal Cruises has officially added the Arabian Gulf to its roster of top destinations, positioning it as a prime winter hub for Australian cruisers. This new offering provides Australians with an exciting, exotic cruise opportunity in a region that has been gaining popularity among international travelers. For those visiting or transiting through the UAE, the cruise line has created a fresh set of itineraries that combine iconic city destinations with hidden gems, giving guests an unparalleled cruise experience in the heart of the Gulf.
A Bold New Adventure for Australian Cruisers
Celestyal Cruises has firmly established itself as a leading brand in offering immersive cruise experiences. In 2025, the company expanded its portfolio by venturing into the Arabian Gulf, home to the bustling metropolises of Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. These cities are known for their towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and vibrant cultural scenes. However, Celestyal is going beyond the typical tourist hotspots, offering Australian guests an opportunity to explore lesser-known destinations like Sir Bani Yas Island, an ecologically rich wildlife sanctuary, and Khasab, a scenic coastal town in Oman that promises a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, shared the company’s enthusiasm for this new venture, noting the strong demand for their Desert Days itineraries. “We have been absolutely thrilled by the demand for our Arabian Gulf itineraries,” Haslett said. “Our 2025 Desert Days cruises sailed at full capacity, with bookings 27 percent over our estimated targets for the season and sailed guests 35 percent above target. This clearly shows the growing appetite for immersive cruise experiences in the GCC.”
Why the Arabian Gulf is Drawing Attention
The Arabian Gulf is a region that continues to evolve as a global travel hotspot, with an increasing number of visitors flocking to the UAE and neighboring countries. The popularity of cruises in this area is a direct reflection of the Gulf’s expanding tourism sector. What makes these cruises particularly appealing is the combination of luxurious cityscapes and quiet, idyllic escapes.
Celestyal’s new itineraries cater to both sides of this equation. Guests can enjoy the modern marvels of cities like Dubai, where glittering shopping malls and cultural landmarks coexist, and Abu Dhabi, home to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Yet, the cruise line also ensures that travelers experience the quieter, more tranquil side of the Gulf, with stops at lesser-known ports that focus on natural beauty and wildlife.
Sir Bani Yas Island, a highlight of the itinerary, offers a unique opportunity to witness Arabian wildlife up close, including giraffes, cheetahs, and Arabian oryx. Meanwhile, Khasab offers a coastal respite with its stunning fjords and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those seeking peace and serenity after a day of bustling city tours.
The Success of the Arabian Gulf Itineraries
Celestyal’s decision to launch these cruises is not just about offering new destinations—it’s also a reflection of the growing demand for unique, destination-intensive itineraries. The success of their initial 2025 Desert Days sailings has proven that there is a real hunger among travelers for more immersive and boutique-style cruises that prioritize destination experiences over just cruising for the sake of cruising.
The company’s mid-sized ships, which can navigate smaller and more intimate ports, are part of what makes the Celestyal experience distinct. Unlike larger cruise ships that typically focus on mass tourism, Celestyal’s vessels are able to access these unique locations that would otherwise be inaccessible, providing guests with an intimate and personalized cruising experience.
Haslett’s excitement over the performance of the Arabian Gulf routes speaks volumes about the potential for growth in this sector. “The success we’ve achieved so far highlights the demand for destination-intensive itineraries aboard our mid-sized ships, which offer a boutique cruise experience with access to marquee cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations,” he explained.
Looking Ahead to More Growth in the Gulf
The Arabian Gulf cruise market is still in its early stages, but Celestyal’s strong performance indicates that this is a sector set for significant growth in the coming years. The region’s growing tourism infrastructure, including the expansion of cruise ports and luxury accommodations, is laying the groundwork for more cruise lines to invest in the area.
With countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman also opening their doors to cruise tourism, the entire Arabian Peninsula is becoming a more attractive option for travelers. As a result, it’s likely that more cruise lines will follow Celestyal’s lead in exploring this region, further contributing to its rise as a go-to destination for cruisers seeking a combination of modern luxury and cultural richness.
In the meantime, Celestyal’s efforts are helping to shape the future of cruising in the Arabian Gulf. With its commitment to offering unique itineraries, the cruise line is poised to become a key player in the region’s tourism boom. For Australian travelers looking for a new, exotic cruising destination, the Arabian Gulf promises to be an unforgettable experience.
