UAE’s Winter Tourism Campaign Boosts Global Visibility and Local Economy, Everything You Need to Know

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has announced the successful completion of the sixth edition of the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign, which lasted for six weeks from December 16, 2025. The campaign, with the slogan “Our Winter is Entrepreneurial,” was a national initiative aimed at promoting the UAE’s tourism offerings and establishing the UAE as a tourist destination throughout the year. The current campaign has achieved impressive outcomes, including substantial growth in hotel revenue, hotel occupancy, and international attention.

A Nationwide Effort to Boost Domestic Tourism

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign was implemented in collaboration with tourism authorities across all seven emirates, aligning with the UAE’s broader strategy for domestic tourism. With its focus on showcasing the UAE’s rich and diverse tourism assets—from sun-kissed beaches and tranquil islands to nature reserves and cultural landmarks—the campaign offered both local and international visitors a glimpse into the many experiences available in the UAE during the winter season.

A key element of this year’s campaign was to spotlight the role of entrepreneurs and startups in shaping the future of tourism in the UAE. Through the promotion of innovative, entrepreneurial-led tourism experiences, the campaign emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and competitive tourism market. By incorporating green, environmental, and agricultural tourism initiatives, the campaign also supported sustainable travel practices, reflecting the UAE’s growing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings.

Achieving Strong Hotel Revenue Growth

One of the most significant achievements of the World’s Coolest Winter 2026 campaign was its contribution to the UAE’s booming hospitality sector. Hotel revenues for the six-week campaign period reached AED 12.5 billion ($3.4 billion), marking a substantial increase compared to previous editions. This growth is indicative of the campaign’s effectiveness in attracting more visitors and encouraging longer stays, as well as the increasing popularity of the UAE as a tourism destination during the winter months.

With more than 5 million hotel guests, this year’s campaign saw a 5% increase in hotel occupancy compared to the previous edition, with overall occupancy reaching 84%. This uptick in hotel bookings and higher occupancy rates suggest that the UAE is becoming an increasingly desirable destination for tourists, particularly during the cooler winter months, when its weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Global Reach and Impact

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign achieved impressive international visibility. Over the course of the campaign, it generated more than 300 million views and reached an audience of over 1.5 billion people globally. This was made possible through collaborations with 53 local and international content creators, who shared their experiences of the UAE’s unique offerings across multiple platforms. These efforts generated over 1.8 million engagements, helping to further establish the UAE as a top-tier global travel destination.

In addition to promoting the country’s diverse tourism attractions, the campaign highlighted the growing global confidence in the UAE’s tourism sector. It served as a testament to the effectiveness of the UAE’s strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, which have helped shape the country as a leader in the travel and tourism industry.

Supporting Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Tourism

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign was not just about increasing tourism revenue; it also aimed to highlight the contributions of local entrepreneurs and startups to the UAE’s tourism ecosystem. By showcasing pioneering tourism products and initiatives led by young Emirati entrepreneurs, the campaign promoted innovative travel technologies, from advanced tools for travel planning to immersive tourism experiences that bring local culture and heritage to life.

In addition to supporting entrepreneurship, the campaign also emphasized the UAE’s commitment to sustainability. Green tourism initiatives, such as nature reserves and eco-friendly travel products, were promoted as part of the campaign’s broader focus on environmental consciousness. The support for agricultural tourism projects also highlighted the UAE’s diverse offerings and its efforts to promote sustainable practices within the sector.

A Growing Tourism and Travel Sector

The success of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign is reflective of the broader growth of the UAE’s tourism and travel sector. In 2025, the UAE recorded hotel revenues of approximately AED 44.4 billion, driven by 29.1 million guests and nearly 99.4 million hotel nights. This growth is consistent with the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals, which focus on diversifying the economy and positioning the country as a global leader in tourism and hospitality.

Additionally, the UAE’s aviation sector has seen robust growth, with passenger traffic projected to reach 159 million by the end of 2025. These figures underscore the country’s increasing attractiveness as a travel hub for both leisure and business travelers from around the world.

Recognition and International Accolades

The World’s Coolest Winter campaign not only boosted the UAE’s domestic tourism industry but also contributed to the country’s growing international recognition. In 2025, the UAE ranked among the top seven global destinations for international tourist spending, further reinforcing its status as a high-demand destination for global travelers.

The success of the tourism sector in the UAE was also marked by the election of Shaikha Al Nowais as the Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization and the naming of Al Ain as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2026. The UAE also saw Masfout Village win the 2025 Best Tourism Village award, adding to its list of achievements in the tourism sector.

UAE’s Position as a Leading Global Tourism Destination

The World’s Coolest Winter 2026 campaign has firmly established the UAE as a year-round tourism destination that offers a rich variety of experiences for both local and international visitors. With its significant contributions to the UAE’s hospitality and tourism revenue, the campaign also highlighted the growing role of entrepreneurship, sustainable practices, and innovative tourism products in the country’s tourism sector.

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Tourism Across Sri Lanka Is Set To Boost In 2026, With Over Three Million International Tourist Arrivals, Following a Record Breaking Surge Last Year

Sri Lanka tourism sector is soaring as the country sets its sights on an ambitious goal of welcoming 3 million international tourists in 2026. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya recently shared this goal with Parliament, highlighting the government’s commitment to further elevating Sri Lanka travel and tourism industry.

The Prime Minister’s announcement comes on the back of a highly successful year for Sri Lanka’s tourism in 2025, which saw the highest-ever number of tourist arrivals in the nation’s history. The total number of arrivals reached 2,362,521, surpassing the previous record of 2,333,796 set in 2018. This surge in tourists has played a pivotal role in reviving the nation’s economy, which has been recovering from various challenges in recent years.

Record-Breaking Performance in 2025

2025 marked a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The country witnessed an influx of visitors, resulting in tourism revenue totaling USD 3.2 billion. This surge in revenue highlights not only the country’s appeal as a premier travel destination but also the growing role tourism plays in Sri Lanka’s overall economic development.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya highlighted that Sri Lanka’s tourism growth was driven by its diverse attractions, including stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife. The nation’s appeal to global travelers continues to strengthen, with a marked increase in international flights, improved infrastructure, and the development of new hospitality projects.

Driving Factors Behind the Success

Several factors have contributed to the rapid growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. The government has actively worked to enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure, creating a more traveler-friendly environment. Additionally, Sri Lanka has been promoting itself as a year-round destination with an array of offerings, from pristine beaches and luxurious resorts to cultural landmarks like the Temple of the Tooth and the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

Moreover, Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery can be attributed to the concerted efforts of local authorities and private enterprises in aligning their goals to boost the industry. Partnerships with international airlines and travel agencies have helped increase visibility, making Sri Lanka a more accessible and attractive destination for tourists worldwide.

Sri Lanka’s Vision for 2026

Looking ahead, the government is focusing on sustaining this growth and achieving the ambitious target of 3 million tourist arrivals in 2026. This target will be reached through a multi-faceted approach that includes further development of tourist facilities, expanding the country’s digital presence to attract more international travelers, and improving local transportation networks to enhance connectivity.

The government is also prioritizing sustainability and community-based tourism, ensuring that tourism growth benefits both local communities and the environment. Sustainable practices in eco-tourism, responsible wildlife tourism, and the preservation of natural resources are at the core of Sri Lanka’s tourism strategy.

Strengthening Sri Lanka’s Global Tourism Position

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is seen as a cornerstone of its long-term economic recovery and growth. By achieving the 3 million tourist mark, Sri Lanka will solidify its position as a major player in the South Asian tourism market. The country aims to enhance its reputation as a destination that offers a unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that appeal to a wide range of international tourists.

The government’s focus on improving the quality of the tourism experience, coupled with ongoing investment in infrastructure, aims to transform Sri Lanka into one of Asia’s leading tourist hotspots. The country’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean, rich cultural history, and warm hospitality continue to be key selling points for travelers.

Promising Future for Sri Lanka’s Tourism

With the government’s dedicated focus on tourism and the strides already made in 2025, the outlook for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is exceptionally promising. The tourism industry is set to play an even larger role in the nation’s economy in the coming years, contributing not only to job creation and economic development but also enhancing Sri Lanka’s global image as a top tourist destination.

By reaching the 3 million tourist milestone in 2026, Sri Lanka will have firmly established itself as a preferred destination for travelers seeking cultural depth, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Through a combination of strong governmental leadership, international collaboration, and sustainable tourism practices, Sri Lanka is on a path to a thriving future in the global tourism market.

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UAE Sets A New Standard For International Tourism In 2026 With Dubai, Abu Dhabi, And Sharjah Leading A Shift Toward High-Quality, Longer-Stay Travel

The UAE is dominating the 2026 travel landscape because Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are attracting record international demand driven by experience-led stays, competitive pricing, and seamless global access. Travellers from Europe, Asia, and North America are increasingly choosing the UAE not just for its landmarks, but for the comfort, value, and variety these three destinations offer, supported by strong flight connectivity, easing travel costs, and a growing preference for longer, more immersive holidays that combine beaches, culture, and entertainment in a single trip.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are set to dominate international travel demand in 2026 as the United Arab Emirates strengthens its position as a destination where hotel experiences drive travel decisions. New data from Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Report shows that global travellers are no longer choosing destinations only for landmarks or flight deals. Instead, they are increasingly booking trips based on the quality, comfort, and overall experience offered by hotels, a shift that strongly favours the UAE.

Dubai leads this transformation. The city has recorded a sharp rise in advance hotel bookings, with demand up by nearly ninety percent compared to 2024. This surge reflects Dubai’s ability to consistently deliver high-standard accommodation across luxury, mid-range, and family-friendly segments. Travellers now see hotels as part of the holiday experience rather than just a place to sleep, and Dubai’s resort-style properties, serviced apartments, and integrated lifestyle hotels fit this expectation perfectly.

International interest is growing fastest from Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and South Korea. Travellers from these markets are actively searching for destinations that offer comfort alongside culture and variety. Sharjah has emerged as a strong beneficiary of this trend. Searches from German travellers have more than doubled, driven by the emirate’s rich cultural heritage, museums, historic districts, and relaxed coastal environment. Easy access to low-cost flights has further increased Sharjah’s appeal, making it an attractive alternative to more traditional urban destinations. Swiss travellers are showing similar enthusiasm, with searches rising sharply compared to last year.

Price and accessibility continue to play a major role in shaping these travel choices. Dubai benefits from one of the world’s most connected aviation networks, allowing travellers to reach the city easily from Europe, Asia, and North America. Visa-free access for Canadian travellers has removed a key barrier, while a noticeable drop in overall travel costs compared to 2024 has made Dubai even more competitive. These factors combine to make the city a convenient and cost-effective option without sacrificing quality.

Abu Dhabi is also gaining ground, particularly among South Korean travellers. A significant reduction in average travel prices during 2025 has improved the emirate’s value proposition, encouraging more visitors to consider it for leisure travel. Abu Dhabi continues to balance modern attractions with cultural depth, offering museums, beachfront resorts, and entertainment experiences that appeal to travellers seeking a calmer alternative to larger cities while still enjoying premium hospitality.

The report highlights a clear shift in how people plan their holidays. Accommodation now sits at the centre of travel decision-making. More than three-quarters of travellers say hotel quality directly influences where they choose to go, a figure that rises even higher among younger travellers. Gen Z and Millennials, in particular, prioritise design, amenities, location, and overall value when selecting destinations. Hotels with wellness facilities, family-friendly features, and immersive experiences are shaping travel choices more than ever before.

Travel patterns are also changing in terms of trip length. Travellers are planning longer stays, with the average holiday extending to six days in 2026, up from four days in 2025. This shift suggests that visitors are looking to slow down, explore more deeply, and maximise the value of their accommodation. The UAE’s hotel offerings support this trend by combining leisure, dining, entertainment, and relaxation within a single stay.

Beaches remain a powerful draw. Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, world-class hotels offer private beach access, expansive pools, and seamless connections to major attractions. Guests can move easily between beach resorts, shopping malls, cultural landmarks, and theme parks, all within short travel times. This convenience enhances the overall experience and encourages longer stays.

The UAE is expected to attract strong visitor numbers from key markets including the United Kingdom, India, Germany, France, Italy, Turkey, Australia, and the Netherlands in the coming year. These travellers are drawn by a mix of reliable infrastructure, competitive pricing, and consistently high service standards. The country’s ability to cater to different budgets while maintaining quality gives it a clear advantage in a crowded global travel market.

The UAE is leading global travel in 2026 as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah draw rising international demand through strong value, easy access, and experience-focused stays. Longer holidays, falling travel costs, and a growing focus on comfort and culture are pushing travellers to choose the UAE over competing destinations.

As hotels take on a more influential role in shaping travel decisions, the UAE stands out as a destination that understands and responds to changing traveller expectations. By combining accessibility, affordability, and a hospitality sector that continues to innovate, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are well positioned to remain among the world’s most sought-after travel destinations in 2026.

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Singapore Powers Ahead With A Strong Tourism Performance As International Arrivals Grow And Visitor Demand Remains Resilient

Singapore is redefining tourism success by turning steady international demand, higher visitor spending, and a year-round calendar of large-scale events into sustained, high-value growth. Through most of 2025, the city-state has translated rising arrivals into stronger tourism performance, supported by diverse source markets, longer stays, premium experiences, and consistent demand across leisure, business, and cruise travel, positioning tourism as a resilient and expanding pillar of the economy.

Singapore strengthened its position as one of the most resilient and high-performing travel hubs in the region as tourism revenue and visitor numbers climbed steadily through 2025. Strong demand across leisure, business, entertainment, and cruise travel pushed the visitor economy to new highs, reinforcing confidence in the city-state’s tourism recovery and long-term growth outlook.

Tourism receipts rose 6.5 percent year on year during the first three quarters of 2025, reflecting higher visitor spending across accommodation, attractions, retail, food services, and transport. This consistent performance lifted total tourism earnings to a record S$23.9 billion, equivalent to about US$18.8 billion, in just nine months. With one quarter still to come, Singapore moved firmly on track to outperform its full-year revenue forecast of S$29 billion to S$30.5 billion, underlining the sector’s ability to convert arrivals into strong economic returns.

International travel demand supported this revenue growth. Visitor arrivals reached 16.9 million in 2025, marking a 2.3 percent increase compared with the previous year. The steady rise in arrivals showed that Singapore continued to attract travelers despite global economic pressures and shifting travel patterns. Regional and long-haul markets both played an important role in sustaining this momentum.

The strongest inflows came from mainland China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia and India. Short-haul markets in Southeast Asia delivered consistent volumes, driven by ease of access, frequent flight connections, and short-stay travel. At the same time, long-haul visitors from Australia and India contributed higher average spending, particularly in premium accommodation, shopping, dining, and experiences. This balanced mix helped stabilize overall performance and reduced reliance on any single market.

Beyond sheer visitor numbers, Singapore benefited from longer stays and higher daily spending. Travelers increasingly combined leisure with business, events, and entertainment, extending their trips and increasing overall expenditure. Hotels recorded stronger occupancy and improved room yields, while attractions, shopping districts, and dining venues reported higher footfall and spending per visitor. Cruise tourism also supported growth, as Singapore continued to position itself as a key homeport and turnaround destination in the region.

Major events played a central role in sustaining demand throughout the year. Large-scale international entertainment shows, global sporting fixtures, conventions, and exhibitions consistently filled the events calendar. These gatherings attracted overseas visitors while also encouraging repeat travel, reinforcing Singapore’s reputation as a destination that offers more than short city breaks. The strong performance of events tourism helped smooth seasonal fluctuations and supported year-round visitation.

Looking ahead, Singapore expects this momentum to continue into 2026. Forecasts point to 17 to 18 million international arrivals next year, supported by a full pipeline of entertainment events, international sports races, and expanded cruise operations. New cruise itineraries and homeport activities are set to draw regional and long-haul travelers, further diversifying the visitor base and extending average length of stay.

The revenue outlook remains equally positive. Authorities project tourism receipts between S$31 billion and S$32.5 billion in the coming year, which would set a new benchmark for the sector. This confidence reflects expectations of higher-value travel, stronger visitor spending, and continued demand for premium experiences. It also signals faith in Singapore’s ability to adapt to changing traveler preferences, including demand for immersive attractions, integrated resorts, cultural offerings, and world-class events.

Singapore’s tourism performance in 2025 highlights a broader shift toward quality-driven growth. Rather than relying solely on volume, the city-state continues to focus on value creation through high-spending segments, diverse attractions, and seamless connectivity. Strategic investments in infrastructure, aviation links, cruise facilities, and event hosting continue to strengthen its appeal as both a regional gateway and a global destination.

Singapore is redefining tourism success by converting rising international arrivals, higher visitor spending, and a packed global events calendar into sustained, high-value growth. Strong demand across leisure, business, and cruise travel continues to strengthen the city-state’s tourism performance and outlook.

As global travel patterns evolve, Singapore enters the next phase of tourism growth from a position of strength. Rising receipts, stable visitor growth, and a strong forward booking outlook suggest that the city-state is not only recovering but redefining its tourism success. If current trends hold, Singapore is poised to deliver another record-setting year, reinforcing tourism as a key pillar of its economy.

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Qatar Positions Doha As The Driving Force Behind Gulf Travel Growth After Securing GCC Tourism Capital Status For 2026

Qatar places Doha at the center of Gulf travel in 2026 after the city secured the GCC Tourism Capital title by combining world-class infrastructure, strong regional connectivity, and a proven ability to host large-scale cultural, business, and sporting events. The designation reflects years of investment in transport, urban development, and tourism planning, while aligning with Qatar’s broader strategy to grow tourism as a long-term economic pillar. With rising visitor numbers, deep ties to neighboring GCC markets, and a year-round calendar of high-profile events, Doha is preparing to use its GCC Tourism Capital year to strengthen regional travel flows, attract international audiences, and reinforce its role as a leading destination in the Gulf.

Doha has secured the title of GCC Tourism Capital for 2026, placing the Qatari capital at the forefront of travel and tourism activity across the Gulf for the coming year. The designation reflects a shared regional decision to spotlight cities that actively shape tourism growth, connectivity, and cooperation within the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Tourism authorities from all six GCC countries approved the title unanimously, signaling strong confidence in Doha’s direction and long-term tourism strategy. The capital has moved quickly from being a transit hub to becoming a destination in its own right, attracting travelers for business, culture, sport, and leisure. This recognition acknowledges that shift and sets the stage for a year-long program of events and initiatives designed to strengthen regional travel flows.

Doha earned the designation through a focused bid that emphasized infrastructure readiness, cultural depth, and sustainable tourism planning. Over the past decade, the city has invested heavily in visitor facilities, public transport, and urban regeneration. These efforts support Qatar’s wider economic diversification agenda, where tourism plays a central role in reducing reliance on energy revenues while creating jobs and long-term value.

Regional travel continues to drive much of Doha’s momentum. Travelers from GCC countries formed a substantial share of arrivals in 2025, supported by frequent air connections and streamlined entry procedures. More than four hundred weekly flights from nearby Gulf cities make Doha an easy short-break destination, encouraging repeat visits and multi-purpose travel that combines business, leisure, and events.

Infrastructure gives Doha a clear competitive edge. Hamad International Airport operates as a high-capacity global gateway, linking the city to major markets while offering efficient transfer and arrival experiences. An extensive airline network strengthens access from regional and long-haul destinations, while the integrated metro and tram system allows visitors to move easily between the airport, hotels, cultural districts, stadiums, and business centers. This connectivity enables Doha to host large international gatherings without straining urban systems.

The GCC Tourism Capital program for 2026 will build on these strengths. The city plans a packed calendar of conferences, exhibitions, cultural festivals, entertainment shows, and family-friendly activities spread throughout the year. By distributing events across seasons, Doha aims to maintain steady visitor demand and avoid sharp peaks and troughs that often challenge fast-growing destinations.

The announcement follows a landmark year for Qatar’s tourism sector. In 2025, the country welcomed more than five million international visitors, driven by a diverse calendar of over six hundred events and strong international promotion. This performance demonstrated Doha’s ability to convert global attention into sustained travel demand, reinforcing confidence in its capacity to deliver as a regional tourism capital.

To support the 2026 program, tourism authorities have released a detailed, downloadable events calendar that outlines major highlights well in advance. One of the most anticipated additions arrives in February with the debut of Art Basel Qatar, scheduled from February 05 to February 07 at M7 and the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha. The event will bring international galleries, regional artists, and creative professionals together, positioning Doha as a growing center for arts, design, and cultural exchange.

Sport will play a central role in shaping the early months of the year. The Qatar Masters Golf Championship 2026 will take place from February 05 to February 08 at Doha Golf Club, continuing a long-running tournament that draws international attention and visiting spectators. On February 06, the Al Adaid Desert Challenge will unfold in Sealine, offering mountain biking, duathlon, and trail running across marked desert routes. This event highlights Qatar’s natural landscapes and its push to expand adventure and outdoor tourism.

The sporting calendar continues with the Qatar TotalEnergies Open 2026, scheduled from February 08 to February 14 at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. The tournament will attract top international competitors and global media coverage, reinforcing Doha’s reputation as a reliable host for elite sporting events.

Qatar places Doha at the heart of Gulf tourism in 2026 after the city earned the GCC Tourism Capital title by pairing strong regional connectivity with world-class infrastructure and a proven record of hosting major cultural, business, and sporting events.

Through its GCC Tourism Capital year, Doha aims to showcase how infrastructure, culture, sport, and events can work together to support sustainable tourism growth. The city plans to use the platform not only to attract visitors but also to deepen regional partnerships, encourage repeat travel, and strengthen its position as a leading hub for Gulf tourism in the years beyond 2026.

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Celestyal Adds New Athens–Jeddah Cruises for November 2026, Strengthening its Cruise Tourism Growth Linking Europe, Red Sea and Arabian Gulf

Celestyal is strengthening cruise tourism in the Eastern Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Arabian Gulf by introducing two new repositioning cruises for November 2026. The two new sailings between Athens (Piraeus) and Jeddah are experiencing the demand for November sailings that are longer, multi-destination cruises.

The repositioning cruise sector is being reconceptualized, and no longer seen merely as operational necessities. The new cruises will be the first in the Outer Mediterranean. It is believed they will provide high value tourism with the potential to develop new markets, extend seasons, and diversify the tourism spread.

Athens to Jeddah Cruises Expand Multi-Destination Cruise Demand

The Celestyal Journey will depart Piraeus on November 14, 2026, offering a seven-night itinerary with calls at Port Said and Safaga in Egypt, and Aqaba in Jordan, alongside a full Suez Canal transit. Starting from $789 per person, the cruise is positioned to attract travellers seeking immersive cultural experiences at competitive pricing.

The Celestyal Discovery will follow with an eight-night sailing from Piraeus on November 20, 2026, priced from $909 per person. This itinerary mirrors the Journey’s route while adding a call at Kusadasi, Turkey, opening access to another key embarkation market and expanding cruise tourism reach in the Eastern Mediterranean. These sailings support cruise tourism growth by encouraging longer itineraries, multi-country exploration, and increased passenger spending across ports that benefit from shoulder-season cruise calls.

Repositioning Cruises Become Growth Engines for the Cruise Sector

Celestyal’s expanded repositioning programme highlights how cruise lines are using these voyages to stimulate incremental tourism demand rather than simply relocating ships. By combining iconic destinations with lesser-visited ports, the itineraries appeal to experienced cruisers and culturally curious travellers looking for journeys with depth and narrative.

The inclusion of Egyptian and Jordanian ports, alongside a rare Suez Canal transit, adds experiential value that enhances cruise tourism growth by differentiating these sailings from traditional Mediterranean routes.

Boosting Cruise Tourism in the Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean

Ports such as Port Said, Safaga, and Aqaba are increasingly central to cruise tourism expansion strategies as destinations seek to diversify beyond peak-season Mediterranean traffic. Cruise calls support local economies through shore excursions, transport services, guides, retail, and hospitality, often delivering outsized benefits in emerging or developing cruise markets.

By routing ships through these destinations, Celestyal contributes to regional cruise tourism development, helping integrate the Red Sea more firmly into global cruise itineraries while spreading tourism flows more evenly.

Demand Signals Strong Cruise Tourism Momentum

Celestyal confirmed that the new sailings build on strong demand for previous Athens–Jeddah voyages, underlining a broader trend in cruise tourism growth toward longer, destination-led journeys. Travelers are increasingly seeking cruises that combine iconic heritage destinations with new cultural experiences, rather than short, repetitive itineraries. This demand supports cruise lines’ willingness to invest in complex, cross-regional routes that generate higher yields and stronger destination partnerships.

Seamless Transition Into a Growing Arabian Gulf Cruise Market

After arriving in Jeddah, both ships will continue to the Arabian Gulf, launching Celestyal’s third consecutive winter season in the region. The Gulf has rapidly emerged as a key growth market for cruise tourism, supported by modern port infrastructure, strong air connectivity, and diversified attractions.

The Celestyal Journey will operate an updated seven-night Desert Days itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Doha with calls at Dubai (overnight), Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Bahrain. Overnight stays and extended port calls increase onshore spending and deepen destination engagement, amplifying cruise tourism’s economic impact.

Shorter Cruises Support Cruise Tourism Growth in the Gulf

The Celestyal Discovery will complement this with three-, four-, and seven-night Iconic Arabia cruises, sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi and calling at Doha, Khasab, Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Ras Al Khaimah. Short and mid-length itineraries are vital drivers of cruise tourism growth in the Gulf, attracting first-time cruisers, regional travellers, and fly-cruise guests, while ensuring frequent port calls that benefit local tourism economies.

Cruise Tourism Growth Through Regional Integration

By linking Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Gulf destinations in a single seasonal deployment, Celestyal is reinforcing cruising as a tool for regional tourism integration. These itineraries encourage travellers to experience multiple cultures and landscapes while distributing tourism benefits across a wide network of ports.

Such cross-regional strategies align with national tourism ambitions in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean, where cruise tourism is increasingly seen as a catalyst for economic diversification, destination branding, and international visibility.

Cruise Sector Growth Extends Into 2026–27

Added repositioning voyages showcase the positive trend on the growth of global cruise tourism as cruise lines diversify their routes and operating calendars. For Celestyal, it consolidates its niche as an expert in destination-based cruising. For the host destinations, it means an increased, sustained provision of visitor arrivals and exposure to primary source markets.

The Athens–Jeddah sailings are a testament to cruise tourism growth and the new travel patterns it creates, especially between Europe, the Red Sea, and the Arabian Gulf. It also reflects the demand for longer, more experiential journeys that integrate multiple destinations. It will likely drive further travel pattern shifts in the years to come.

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