Middle East Cruises

Sail to the Middle East & Arabian Gulf

Boasting fascinating culture and awe-inspiring architecture, from a time long gone, it’s no longer surprising that the Middle East makes for some of the most desired cruise destinations in the world. This exquisite region is filled with diverse landscapes, including the arid deserts in Jordan and the Mediterranean coastline of Lebanon and Cyprus. The countries making up the Arab region are almost a world apart from what we know, but a cruise to the Middle East will let you explore the Arab world in its full glory.

Often dubbed as the “oasis of cosmopolitan luxury travellers,” Dubai packs a punch of state-of-the-art skyscrapers, high-end shopping, and lavish lifestyle. Lay your eyes on the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa – a quintessential experience when you’re in Dubai. Soak up the mix of contemporary sophistication and old-world charm in Muscat, and see the local’s unique way of life that takes influence from the civilisations of Arab countries, Africa, and Asia. Nature lovers and adrenaline junkies fall in love at first sight with the cosmopolitan city of Fujairah, where they can enjoy scuba diving in snorkelling spots and hiking in the surrounding colossal mountains.

Middle East Cruise Destinations

QATAR

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Featured Middle East Cruise Deals

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Sail Onboard NEW MSC Euribia

Dazzling Dubai & Emirates Discovery

From £1,449 pp

7th February 2025 | 8 Nights
More Dates Available
MSC Euribia

Sail Onboard NEW MSC Euribia
FREE Premium Drinks Package
Return Flights Included
Overnight Port Stay in Dubai
Full Board Cruise
Onboard Activities
Exclusive Onboard Entertainment
Gratuities Included
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Middle East Cruise Highlights

Abu Dhabi, UAE

The capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi, makes a great starting point for exploring the rest of the Emirates. The dynamic city is on par with Dubai’s splendour, except it has a more traditional and peaceful atmosphere than the bustling Dubai. It cradles the most extensive mosque in UAE, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers. This architectural masterpiece is characterised by a white-washed exterior with gold accents, towering columns, striking domes, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers, and a colossal hand-knotted carpet. Abu Dhabi is also home to the first circular skyscraper in the world, Aldar Headquarters, and the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, where some of the scenes of the world-famous film Fast and Furious 7 were filmed.

Muscat, Oman

Nestled along the Arabian Sea on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat is Oman’s charming port capital with a long history dating to many years ago. The city’s most notable features include its time-honoured city walls and the watchtowers wrapping the old town. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest and tallest mosque in the country, is the city’s stunning centrepiece. Stretching along a gorgeous corniche is Mutah Souq, one of the oldest markets in the city where you can bargain for a wide selection of handicrafts. Breathe in the exotic ambience of Oman’s capital – Muscat is truly a melting pot of cultures.

Aqaba, Jordan

Aqaba is one of the best gateways to the Red Sea, a narrow strip of water containing the hottest and saltiest sea water in the world. This coastal city in Jordan is a perfect destination for adrenaline junkies who want to brave windsurfing and scuba diving. Some of the premier dive spots in the area are the Aqaba Marine Park and the Red Sea. If you swim deeper into the Red Sea, you’ll witness the ruins of the Cedar Pride, a Lebanese freighter wreck swathed in an abundant assortment of corals and thriving marine life. Besides exciting water sports, Aqaba also offers something for history buffs. Step back in time as you stroll around the Aqaba Fort, and get a glimpse of Jordan's storied past and rich culture.

History and Culture

The Middle East has an interesting amalgam of traditions, cuisine, languages, and cultures. The region has also birthed several civilisations throughout history, as well as some of the important religions and way of life that we’re practising today. The Middle East is argued to be the cradle of three of the world’s major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These monotheistic religions all consider Jerusalem as a holy place with great religious significance. Engage with the Bedouin people, a semi-nomadic group of desert-dwellers, in Wadi Rum. This protected desert boasts an expansive landscape of enormous sandstone cliffs, magnificent rock formations, and endless red sand valley – combining nature and culture in one enchanting setting.

Things to Do in Middle East

Indulge in the opulence of Dubai’s skyline

Dubai is regarded as the city of excess and home to many of the world’s largest, mainly for its extravagant character and avant-garde architecture. Hop on a shopping galore in the Dubai Mall, set in the heart of the city. It’s the world’s largest shopping mall, dotted with over a thousand high-end stores. This sprawling city is where you can find the tallest man-made structure in the world, the Burj Khalifa. Stand above the clouds on the observation deck and indulge in the opulence of the city’s golden skyline. If you’re not in the mood to climb the summit of the skyscraper, catch the spectacular fountain display at the base of Burj Khalifa, the world’s most massive performing fountain.

Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Doha

Abounds with captivating cultural heritage and modern buildings, Doha is sure to transport every traveller into a world of antiquity and elegance. Walk along the crescent-shaped seafront promenade of Doha skirted by lush greenery and ultramodern buildings while dosing sunshine. Pearl Island is one of the city’s greatest engineering feats, a prestigious artificial island and residential area bursting with lavish hotels, quaint coffee shops, fine-dining restaurants, an iconic marina, and luxurious retail shops. Another architectural treasure in the capital is the Museum of Islamic Art, carrying a substantial collection of art pieces that showcase Islamic heritage.

Float on the Dead Sea

Floating on the Dead Sea is an epic experience that’s almost surreal, yet so relaxing and fulfilling. Due to its high salinity, the water becomes denser and the body feels lighter, resulting in staying afloat. This hypersaline lake is the lowest discovered body of water in the world belonging to both Israel and Jordan. Good news for people with a fear of submerging underwater but want to bask in the waters – it’s almost impossible to sink and drown in the Dead Sea. Let the natural buoyancy push your body upward and stay suspended atop the waters, feeling weightless and free of worries in a place almost devoid of life. Be sure to know and follow all the guidelines for a safe adventure!

Man-made Marvels in Middle East

The Middle East is renowned for its man-made marvels spread across the region. It has consistently exhibited architectural excellence throughout the time, evidenced by the remnants of architectural wonders from the ancient world and the continuously rising futuristic structures that now grace the region’s skyline. Here are some of the Middle’s East most iconic man-made marvels.

Burj Khalifa, the tallest free-standing building in the world that’s almost ubiquitous in Dubai’s apparent horizon.
Petra is one of the 7 wonders of the world and a well-known archeological site that was half-built and half-carved by the Nabataean Arabs into the mountains – making it a testament of monumental civilisation.
Aldar Headquarters is the first circular skyscraper in the world, inspired by the form of a clam shell which represents Abu Dhabi’s searing legacy.
Pearl Island is an impressive real-estate development following the creation of a first-rate man-made island on the banks of Doha's prestigious West Bay District.

Middle East FAQs

Are there cruises to the Middle East?

Several mainstream cruise lines offer seasonal sailings and world cruise stops to the Middle East with varying curated itineraries and duration, such as MSC Cruises, Azamara, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Other prominent operators that offer an abundant selection of itineraries in the Middle East are Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Seabourne, and Silversea.

When is the best time to cruise the Middle East?

The Middle East sailing season runs from December through March for pleasant weather conditions. The most ideal time for cruising is from April to May if you’re planning to visit the Mediterranean countries to enjoy warmer temperatures.

Is a passport needed for a Middle East cruise?

Yes, a valid passport is required for cruises that go to the Middle East. It must be presented in every country throughout the Middle East.

What should I pack for my Middle East cruise?

Middle East countries generally have hot and humid climates, so lightweight clothing and sunscreen are essential. You should also consider the local culture of the destination, so packing a non-revealing and culture-appropriate wardrobe would be best. Research about the season of your visit and bring suitable and comfortable clothes. Other advisable must-haves are travel documents, wallet with card and cash, walking shoes, and portable charger/powerbank.

What currency is accepted in a Middle East cruise?

Most of the destinations that a Middle East cruise goes to accept US dollars or euros as payments. Most shipboard transactions are done in a cashless way for maximum convenience. Local store outlets and public transport on the ports widely accept visa and master cards.

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