What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Celestyal has announced the deployment of two ships, Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery, to the Arabian Gulf for the 2025/26 season, marking a 211% increase in capacity compared to the previous year. The deployment includes seven-night cruises from Athens to Jeddah, with stops in Turkey and Egypt, before continuing to Abu Dhabi. The Arabian Gulf season will feature special itineraries such as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix cruise and 'Desert Days' itineraries, offering roundtrip voyages from Doha and Abu Dhabi. The expansion reflects Celestyal's commitment to the region, supported by partnerships with Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah.
Why It's Important?
Celestyal's increased capacity in the Arabian Gulf highlights the growing demand for cruise tourism in the region, particularly during the northern winter. The deployment of two ships signifies confidence in the market's potential, driven by partnerships with key regional stakeholders. This expansion could boost local economies through increased tourism and create opportunities for cultural exchange. The focus on diverse itineraries, including new destinations like Ras Al Khaimah, showcases the region's appeal as a multifaceted travel destination, potentially attracting a wider range of international visitors.
What's Next?
Celestyal's expanded operations in the Arabian Gulf are set to commence in December 2025, with the first cruises offering unique experiences tied to regional events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. As the season progresses, Celestyal may introduce additional itineraries or promotional campaigns to capitalize on the growing interest in the region. The success of this expansion could lead to further investments in cruise infrastructure and collaborations with local tourism boards to enhance the overall visitor experience.
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