Cruise Arabia Alliance Expands as Saudi Arabia and Qatar Join to Boost Gulf Tourism

The Cruise Arabia Alliance has expanded its membership with Saudi Arabia and Qatar officially joining the regional partnership an important step toward strengthening cruise tourism and deepening cooperation across the GCC. The announcement was made at the World Travel Market in London, where representatives from all six member destinations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise their collaboration.

The alliance now includes Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, united under a shared mission to position the Arabian Gulf as a world-class, sustainable cruise destination. The partnership focuses on joint marketing, infrastructure development, and shared operational standards to attract more cruise lines, streamline visitor experiences, and highlight the region’s rich culture and heritage.

Strengthening Regional Vision and Collaboration-
Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said the expansion reflects a collective ambition to unlock the Gulf’s full tourism potential.
“With the inclusion of Qatar Tourism and Cruise Saudi, we are growing a collective offering that is richer, more diverse, and more compelling for travellers worldwide,” he noted.

Dubai’s Growing Influence as a Global Cruise Hub-
Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, emphasized that the collaboration strengthens Dubai’s role as a leading global cruise hub.
He highlighted how strategic partnerships support the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, drive sustainable growth, and enhance the region’s attraction to cruise operators and passengers.

More Choices and Better Connectivity for Travellers-
Oman’s Undersecretary for Tourism, Azzan bin Qassim Al Busaidi, said the expanded alliance will offer travellers greater diversity and improved connectivity across regional ports.
“Expanding the Cruise Arabia Alliance ensures a diversity of choices, products, and tourism experiences offered to visitors,” he said.

Advancing National Tourism Strategies-
Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen described the partnership as a core component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism objectives, noting that united efforts will help attract cruise lines, enrich guest experiences, and support regional economic growth.

Omar Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, said the alliance will elevate the Gulf’s stature as an international cruise destination by improving connectivity and showcasing the region’s cultural heritage and hospitality.

Bahrain’s Key Role and Regional Synergy-
Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, highlighted the partnership’s alignment with Bahrain’s economic goals.
“By building on our maritime heritage, we will boost cruise tourism, increase hotel occupancy, and enhance visitor experiences directly advancing Bahrain's Tourism Strategy 2022–2026,” she stated.

A Milestone in Gulf Tourism Cooperation-
Officials across the region agree that the expansion of the Cruise Arabia Alliance marks a significant milestone for Gulf tourism. With stronger collaboration, unified marketing, and improved visitor experiences, the alliance is set to elevate the Arabian Gulf as one of the world’s most connected and compelling cruise regions.