‘The Cruise Line that knows Asia Best’ is about to homeport in Dubai offering entertainment-packed, halal-friendly regional sailings
Resorts World Cruises has announced the debut of its vessel, Resorts World One, in the Gulf region, starting cruises from Dubai on November 1, 2024. This marks a significant development for Dubai’s cruise tourism sector, offering new options for both inbound and outbound travel.
Having partnered with DP World, Resorts World Cruises will homeport Resorts World One at Port Rashid in Dubai. It will offer three weekly departures, including the 2 Night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise (Friday departures); the 3 Night Oman (Khasab-Muscat) Cruise (Sunday departures); and the 2 Night Doha Cruise (Wednesday departures). For a longer cruise vacation, passengers can combine any of the itineraries to make a 4, 5 or 7 night cruise.
As ‘The Cruise Line that knows Asia Best’, Resorts World Cruises applies decades of affiliated international experiences and in-depth expertise to cater to the needs and subtle nuances of the Gulf markets. Notably, the Resorts World One will receive the official OIC/SMIIC Standard Halal-Friendly Cruise Ship certification upon commencing her sailing from Dubai, with dedicated halal cuisine options sourced from UAE suppliers. Other halal-friendly onboard offerings are also accessible, including same gender services for selected facilities and venues. In addition, certified vegetarian and Jain cuisine are also available. Onboard public announcements will be made in English and Arabic languages for the convenience of the onboard guests. Shisha will also be available onboard.
For those seeking ultimate luxury, the Resorts World One features The Palace, a private all-suite enclave with exclusive amenities and restaurants, including 24-hour butler service.
The launch coincides with Diwali, a major Indian festival, aiming to attract the region’s large expat population and fly-cruise tourists from Asia. Passengers can expect specially curated entertainment inspired by the Gulf and Asia, along with Diwali-themed festivities on the first voyage.
“These are exciting times for Resorts World Cruises, as we inch closer to the start of our first sailing from Dubai to the Gulf with the Resorts World One on 1 November. The response from the Gulf and from various markets in Asia, including from our travel partners have been very encouraging and we look forward to welcoming guests aboard soon”, said Michael Goh, President, Resorts World Cruises. “Our deployment in the Gulf will unlock new opportunities for Dubai and the Gulf as a premiere cruise region. We look forward to this journey together, as we boost inbound and outbound travel for the cruise tourism sector,” he added.
Saud Mohammed Saeed Hareb, Cruise Tourism & Yachting Lead, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “Dubai’s cruise tourism industry continues to flourish, driven by strategic partnerships and a commitment to offering diverse experiences. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to establish Dubai as a global leader in business and leisure. The partnership with Resorts World Cruises is a testament to this commitment, bringing world-class cruise experiences to the region.”
The ship promises a variety of entertainment options, from day-to-night parties with themes like ‘Dazzling Departure Party’, ‘Bollywood Party’, ‘Twilight Soirée’, ‘Enchanting Arabian Nights Party’, ‘Sand & Oasis Party’, ‘Foam Party’, ‘Rain Party’; ‘Family Pyjama Party under the Stars’ and more. The entertainment on board also includes stage production shows such as ‘Trustfall’, ‘Rhythm & Balance’, ‘Love Matters’ performances and more. Guests of all ages can also take part in a wide array of activities from various dance classes, including belly dancing, ballroom, Japanese, Flamenco etc; as well as kids, teen and family karaoke, outdoor inflatable games, little dreamers edutainment programmes and more.
The itineraries include weekend getaways to Sir Bani Yas Island, known for its wildlife park, and longer cruises to Oman’s Muscat and Khasab, offering stunning landscapes, historical sites, and beaches. Passengers can also choose to visit Doha, Qatar, a vibrant city with a mix of tradition and modern attractions.
Khalid Al Azri, Director of Tourism Trends Department, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Oman, said: “The Omani Ministry of Heritage and Tourism with their key partners is playing a significant role in preparations to ensure a genuine experience and hospitality for Resorts World Cruises in Khasab and Sultan Qaboos Ports from November 2024 to April 2025. This endeavour holds immense significance for Oman in their respective plans to operate 11 ports in the future.”
Maryam Saoud, Head of Tourism Product Support Section at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are excited to welcome Resort World Cruises to Doha for the first time. Renowned for its international experiences and expertise to cater to the needs of its passengers, we are eagerly waiting for her debut across the region. Qatar Tourism’s Cruise Season 2024-2025 is expected to be the largest yet, as the season will see many maiden cruises as well as returning cruise ships gracing ‘The Terminal’. We will be updating visitors with all the new offerings soon.”KNOW MORE
Resorts World Cruises is an extension of the global Resorts World brand, offering Asian-inspired hospitality with a focus on personalized service and diverse experiences. The cruise line caters to international tastes with certified Halal and vegetarian options alongside world-class entertainment. They currently operate in Southeast and East Asia and will soon expand to the Gulf region.