by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 11:05 AM ET, Wed April 16, 2025
Celestyal Cruises will be sailing from Abu Dhabi for the next three years.
The cruise line has signed a new agreement with the Abu Dhabi tourism board, known formally as the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).
Under the partnership, Celestyal will promote Abu Dhabi as a key destination among its guests. The cruise line is slated to return to the Arabian Gulf with two ships in December, and plans to make three calls a week at Abu Dhabi through March 2026.
“Abu Dhabi is a diverse and stunning destination, which is why we’re excited to not only homeport there but also include three weekly calls to the city throughout the winter season for the next three years,” says Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s chief commercial officer. “Abu Dhabi is an ideal fit for our guests who are looking for immersive and culturally rich experiences.”
Last year, Celestyal debuted its new 7-day “Desert Days” itinerary onboard the 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey, sailing round trip from Doha and calling at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. The cruises were so popular that Celestyal extended the season.
Meanwhile, it plans to send the newly renovated 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery to Abu Dhabi in December for three-, four- and seven-night “Iconic Arabia” voyages.
“We look forward to working closely with our agent partners to showcase everything it has to offer,” says Haslett. “The cruise industry in the Arabian Gulf is on track to welcome record passenger numbers in the coming years, and after a strong first season in the region, we’re excited to bring the very best of this special part of the world to our guests for many years to come.”
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