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ARABIAN GULF CRUISES

Arabian Gulf cruises are perfect for UAE residents seeking a short winter getaway. Sail with MSC and Celestyal Cruises on itineraries ranging from 3 to 7 nights, exploring Gulf destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha, Bahrain, Khasab, and Muscat. Choose from a variety of cabin types, including family cabins and options for couples or solo travelers. Enjoy all meals onboard, drinks packages, and a range of onboard recreation and entertainment activities for all ages. Cruises begin in November and continue through April, so early booking is highly recommended as sailings fill up quickly.

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SHIPS SAILING IN THE ARABIAN GULF 2025/2026

MSC CRUISES

CELESTYAL CRUISES

SHORT SAILINGS

Arabian Gulf cruises offer short sailings ranging from 3 to 4 nights, making them the perfect weekend getaway from a busy schedule. These cruises cover top destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha, Bahrain, Khasab, and Muscat. Enjoy a relaxing escape while exploring the beauty of the Gulf. 

LONG SAILINGS

Long sailings (7 nights) are perfect for those with leisure time to truly unwind and explore. Ideal for families, these extended cruises offer a more immersive experience, allowing you to enjoy multiple Gulf destinations at a relaxed pace. With plenty of onboard activities, dining options, and entertainment, these cruises provide a memorable getaway for everyone.  

Whether you're curious about visa requirements, cabin types, the best time to book, or want to explore meals, drinks packages, and onboard activities, we’re here to help. Contact us today to plan your ideal cruise holiday and ensure every detail is taken care of for a seamless experience. Book an online call with one of our cruise specialists to plan your cruise holiday.  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ARABIAN GULF CRUISES

1

 What is included in the Cruise price?

Shipboard accommodation as reserved and paid for, ocean transportation as per itinerary, all meals onboard, some non-alcoholic beverages available in vending machines (e.g. tea, coffee, lemonade and iced-tea – subject to cruise offerings), recreation and entertainment onboard.

2

What is excluded in the Cruise price?

Items of a personal nature, such as transfers, shore excursions, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (unless opting for a drinks inclusive rate when booking), spa treatments, dining in the specialty restaurants, laundry, telephone, email, internet, photographs, gratuity, medical services.

3

What factors affect the price I pay when booking my cruise?

Cruise pricing is dynamic and depends on factors such as sailing date, cruise duration, number of persons occupying a cabin, type of cabin (inside, outside, balcony, or suites), deck location, drinks plans opted for, etc.

4

Do you have a price list that can be shared with us?

No, due to the dynamic nature of cruise pricing, we do not have a static price list. Pricing is quoted case by case and is valid only if booked at the time of quotation.

5

Are your prices per person or per cabin?

Prices are generally quoted on a per cabin basis. The price depends on the number of occupants, their ages, and whether booked on a standard or all-inclusive basis.

6

Do we pay the same price irrespective of the number of persons occupying our cabin?

No, pricing depends on the number and ages of cabin occupants.

7

Do we get a discount if booking 2 or more cabins?

Group discounts can be requested when booking at least 20 cabins on the same sailing date. Approval is subject to the cruise line’s booking load.

8

What are gratuities/service charges? Why am I paying them?

Gratuities are crew appreciation amounts pooled to recognize staff across various departments. These can be paid in advance or onboard depending on the cruise line. MSC requires advance payment at the time of booking.

9

How much do gratuities cost for adults and children?

MSC Cruises: USD 12 per adult per night (12+) & USD 6 per child (2-11). Infants under certain ages are not charged. Celestyal Cruises fare always includes port charges and gratuities.

10

What is “guarantee” cabin pricing?

Guarantee cabins are sold at discounted rates without the option to select cabin numbers or dining preferences. The cruise assigns a cabin in the same or higher category closer to sailing. These may include obstructed views and often come with non-refundable policies.

11

What options do I have for cabin types?

Cabins are generally classified as inside cabins (no window), outside cabins (with a window), balcony cabins (with balcony seating), and suites. Prices vary by deck level, size, and location.

12

Does the cabin I book affect the facilities I can access onboard?

No, except for suites that may include additional privileges, all passengers have access to the same common facilities onboard.

13

Can I know in advance which specific cabin number I will be assigned?

Yes, unless you book a guarantee cabin. Guarantee cabins are assigned by the cruise line and may have obstructed views.

14

If I book a balcony or outside view cabin, am I guaranteed a sea view?

Sea views are guaranteed only while sailing. At port, views may face the city or be obstructed by equipment like lifeboats. Some balcony cabins are inward facing.

15

What is the maximum number of persons allowed in a cabin?

Most cruise lines allow up to 4 persons per cabin including children and infants. Some suites can accommodate up to 6 persons, subject to availability.

16

Can 4 adults sleep together in the same cabin?

Yes, but space may be limited. The 3rd and 4th adult usually sleep on sofa beds. Booking 2 cabins or a suite is recommended for longer sailings.

17

Can I get inter-connected or adjoining cabins on the same deck?

Yes, some ships have connected cabins. Early booking is advised as availability is limited.

18

Is my infant chargeable?

Infants must pay government port taxes. Generally, they are free or discounted when sharing with 2 adults. Availability of triple cabins is limited.

19

Are baby cots available for infants?

Yes, baby cots are available in certain cabins. Request must be made at the time of booking.

20

Can balcony cabins be booked with children?

Yes, provided at least one adult occupies the cabin with the children.

21

Will extra beds be provided for children?

Yes, cabins for 3 or 4 persons include a sofa bed.

22

Are there meal options for vegetarians?

Yes, vegetarian options are available in buffets.

23

Are drinks included onboard?

For MSC, No, drinks are not included in standard pricing. Drinking water is available at buffets. All other drinks can be purchased separately or with a drinks package. For Celestyal, the fare always includes selected non-alcoholic drinks and beverages during meal service hours. Premium drinks or beverages beyond that incur additional charges. You can purchase CelestyalPay credit, and an 18% service fee is added to each purchase.

24

What drinks are included in the all-inclusive rate with MSC Cruises?

For MSC, MSC’s ‘Easy’ package includes cocktails, spirits, wines, beer, sodas, juices, bottled water, and hot drinks. Not valid at specialty restaurants or premium venues. Beverage gratuities are included.

25

Can CelestyalPay be used for all other onboard costs including shore excursions, spa, and retail?

For Celestyal, Celestyal Pay is your dedicated pre-purchase food and drink tab, giving you the choice and flexibility to treat yourself to a range of beverages and specialty dining. It cannot be used for shore excursions, spa services, or other onboard experiences.

26

Can I add a drinks package after booking my cruise?

For MSC, Yes, subject to availability. Prices may be higher if added later.

27

Is it possible to book a drinks inclusive rate for only one person in the cabin?

For MSC, No, all guests in a cabin must book the same package. Children are automatically charged a reduced non-alcoholic rate.

28

Are children paying extra for drinks packages if they don’t consume alcohol?

For MSC, No, pricing is adjusted for age. Children’s packages exclude alcohol.

29

Can the drinks package be used at all outlets onboard?

For MSC, Yes, except at specialty or themed restaurants. Subject to ship-specific restrictions.

30

Can I book a non-alcoholic drinks package?

For MSC, Yes, non-alcoholic packages are available, though all-inclusive options may sometimes be more economical.

31

When docked at port, is it mandatory to disembark?

No, you can stay onboard. Some facilities may be closed, but it’s a good time to enjoy less crowded areas.

32

Do you offer guided tours to explore the destinations?

Yes, cruise lines operate optional guided tours at ports of call. These are not included in cruise pricing and should be booked early due to limited availability.

33

Can I embark later or disembark earlier in Dubai/Abu Dhabi sailings?

Not guaranteed. It depends on UAE Immigration’s availability. Check with your consultant.

34

Are ports of call subject to change?

Yes, ports may change at short notice due to unforeseen circumstances.

35

Am I required to apply for additional visas at international ports?

Possibly, depending on nationality and visa regulations of each country visited.

36

Do I need to book a shore excursion to disembark?

Not always, but some countries may require passengers to be part of an organized tour group.

37

What do I need to provide to book my cruise?

Scanned passports, UAE residence visas (if applicable), contact details, next of kin details and payment.

38

Can UAE Tourist Visa holders sail on Arabian Gulf Sailings?

Yes, but they must apply for a multi-entry UAE visit visa. Processing takes 5-10 days depending on nationality.

39

If I get a UAE visa on arrival, do I need a multi-entry visa?

No, but ensure you haven’t exceeded the allowed stay days in the past 180 days.

40

Do I need my passport for UAE-only sailings?

Yes, original passports valid for at least 6 months beyond sailing date are required. UAE residents must also carry Emirates ID.

41

What documents do UAE residents require for Gulf Cruises?

Passports valid 6 months beyond cruise end date, residence visas valid 3 months beyond. Visa requirements depend on the guest's nationality and the cruise itinerary.

42

Does my UAE Residence Visa need to be valid 3 months beyond the cruise sailing date at booking?

No, but it must be valid at the time of embarkation. Otherwise, boarding will be denied.

43

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Not, but it is strongly advised for protection against cancellation and curtailment.

44

Do I need to pay the entire quoted amount upfront?

Full payment is generally required 60 days before sailing. Insurance should be issued at the time of booking.

45

What are the cancellation policies?

Cancellation fees vary by cruise line and itinerary. Charges increase closer to departure. Travel insurance can cover cancellations for valid reasons.

46

Is there Wi-Fi onboard? Will UAE mobile data work?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available for purchase. UAE mobile data works only at ports, not at sea.

47

Are pets allowed onboard?

No, except recognized assistance dogs with prior approval.

48

Is smoking permitted onboard?

Only in designated areas. Not allowed in cabins, balconies, or undesignated areas.

49

Do casinos operate onboard?

Yes, but only in international waters.

50

What facilities are available for children?

Cruise ships are family-friendly with children’s facilities. Videos can be viewed on the website.

51

Are pregnant women accepted onboard?

Yes, with a doctor’s certificate. MSC and Celestyal does not allow women who will be 24+ weeks pregnant at cruise end to sail.

52

Are medical services available on board?

Yes, there is a medical team onboard with a doctor and medical staff available for emergencies.

53

Are there wheelchair-accessible cabins?

Yes, MSC and Celestyal offer wheelchair-accessible cabins, but availability is limited and advance booking is recommended.
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