In a landmark event for the region’s cruise tourism sector, Resorts World Cruises has announced the official launch of its cruise liner, Resorts World One, from Dubai on November 1, 2024. This marks a significant boost to Dubai’s position as a premier cruise hub and aims to enhance both inbound and outbound travel across the Gulf. The launch was supported by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), along with other key tourism and port authorities from Oman, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi.
Resorts World One: New Sailing Opportunities for Travelers in the Gulf
Starting from DP World’s Mina Port Rashid, Resorts World One will offer three weekly cruise itineraries for travelers seeking to explore the Gulf region. The itineraries include:
- 2 Night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise: Departs every Friday, offering travelers a quick getaway to the popular island of Sir Bani Yas, known for its pristine beaches and wildlife sanctuary.
- 3 Night Oman (Khasab-Muscat) Cruise: Departs every Sunday, giving passengers a chance to explore the beautiful landscapes and rich history of Oman’s cities, Khasab and Muscat.
- 2 Night Doha Cruise: Departs every Wednesday, offering a cruise to the Qatari capital, Doha, a city that uniquely blends old-world traditions with modern attractions.
For those looking for longer journeys, passengers can combine these itineraries to create a 4, 5, or even 7-night cruise experience, ensuring flexibility and variety for travelers.
Catering to Diverse Cultural Needs
As a cruise line known for its expertise in catering to the needs of the Asian market, Resorts World Cruises will bring a unique blend of hospitality and services tailored for Gulf travelers. The Resorts World One will be the first cruise ship in the region to receive the OIC/SMIIC Standard Halal-Friendly certification, ensuring that Muslim guests can enjoy a fully certified Halal dining experience. The ship will serve Halal-certified meats sourced from UAE suppliers, and offer Halal-friendly facilities, including gender-specific services for certain areas on board.
Additionally, Resorts World One will feature a range of vegetarian and Jain cuisine options, catering to Indian and international guests with dietary restrictions. To ensure accessibility for all passengers, public announcements will be made in both English and Arabic, and shisha will be available onboard for guests who want to relax in traditional style.
Exciting Times Ahead for Dubai’s Cruise Tourism
During the press conference, Michael Goh, President of Resorts World Cruises, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming launch. “The response from the Gulf region and our partners in Asia has been very encouraging. We are excited to bring this unique cruising experience to Dubai and boost the region’s cruise tourism industry,” he said.
Goh emphasized the potential of Resorts World One to attract both local and international tourists, offering them not just a cruise, but a full-fledged vacation experience. With the ship homeporting in Dubai, tourists will have ample opportunities to explore the city’s wide array of attractions before and after their cruises.
Saud Mohammed Saeed Hareb, Cruise Tourism & Yachting Lead at DET, also highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that it aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai as a leading global city for both business and leisure. “Cruise tourism is a crucial element in our strategy to attract more international visitors, and Resorts World One will be a key player in achieving this,” he added.
Onboard Experiences and Entertainment
In addition to its cultural offerings, Resorts World One promises an array of entertainment options to keep guests engaged throughout their journey. From high-energy departure parties to lavish dinner shows, the ship’s itinerary is packed with experiences. Guests can enjoy themed parties like the Dazzling Departure Party, Twilight Soirée, and Arabian Nights Party.
For Bollywood enthusiasts, the ship will also host a lively Bollywood Party, while other options include the popular Foam Party, Rain Party, and a Family Pyjama Party under the stars.
Coinciding with Diwali, the ship’s inaugural departure will feature week-long celebrations of the Festival of Lights, complete with traditional decor, Diwali-inspired performances, and a Gujarat Food Festival. These festivities are expected to attract a significant portion of the region’s expatriate population, especially those from India and other Asian countries.
The entertainment lineup doesn’t stop there. Resorts World One will also showcase a variety of stage productions, such as Trustfall, Rhythm & Balance, and Love Matters. Guests of all ages can participate in dance classes covering everything from belly dancing to ballroom, while younger passengers can take part in kids’ karaoke and outdoor inflatable games.
Exploring Exotic Destinations in the Gulf
Beyond onboard entertainment, the real allure of Resorts World One lies in its destinations. Guests can explore Sir Bani Yas Island, famed for its white sand beaches and wildlife reserve, home to over 17,000 animals. Those venturing to Oman will experience the breathtaking mountainous landscapes of Khasab and Muscat, two cities known for their rich history and natural beauty.
Doha, the capital of Qatar, offers a more cosmopolitan experience, where modernity meets tradition. From dune bashing to camel racing, the city has plenty to offer adventurous travelers, alongside cultural landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif.
Strengthening Partnerships in the Gulf
The launch of Resorts World One is not just a milestone for Resorts World Cruises, but also for the region’s cruise infrastructure. Key partnerships have been formed with DP World, a leading maritime gateway that will provide homeporting services for the ship at Port Rashid. This collaboration marks a significant step in boosting Dubai’s maritime and tourism sectors.
Additionally, Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has been actively preparing to welcome the cruise ship at Khasab and Sultan Qaboos ports from November 2024 through April 2025, further cementing Oman’s role in the region’s growing cruise tourism market.
Qatar Tourism is also gearing up for its largest cruise season yet, which will see Resorts World One dock at Doha’s state-of-the-art cruise terminal, The Terminal. With the season set to welcome multiple maiden voyages and returning ships, Qatar is positioning itself as a key player in the region’s cruise sector.
A New Chapter for Cruise Tourism in the Gulf
As the Gulf region continues to expand its tourism offerings, the launch of Resorts World One signals a new chapter in cruise tourism. With its unique blend of cultural sensitivity, luxury experiences, and world-class entertainment, the cruise line is set to attract travelers from all walks of life. Whether passengers are looking for a quick weekend escape or an extended exploration of the Gulf, Resorts World One promises an unforgettable journey at sea.