With the launch of the 2024/2025 cruise season, Qatar is preparing for a landmark year, expecting 430,000 passengers from 95 cruise ship arrivals—a record in the country’s cruising history. The season, running from November 2024 to April 2025, kicked off with the arrival of the Resorts World One cruise ship, marking its maiden call in Doha and setting the stage for a dynamic season.
Resorts World One Ushers in a Season of Growth
The Resorts World One, scheduled for 23 calls throughout the season, is projected to bring approximately 72,000 tourists to Qatar. This opening is symbolic of the country’s readiness to welcome a surge of international visitors and highlights Qatar’s appeal to major global cruise lines.
A Diverse Lineup of Cruise Giants
This season boasts a roster of renowned vessels, including Mein Schiff 4, MSC Euribia, AIDAprima, Costa Smeralda, Norwegian Sky, and Celestyal Journey, reinforcing Qatar’s strategic importance in the global cruise market. Following a successful 2023/2024 season with 73 ships and over 347,000 passengers, Qatar anticipates a 30% rise in cruise calls and a 24.5% increase in passenger numbers.
Visionary Leadership and Strategic Partnerships
Chairman of Qatar Tourism, HE Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, emphasizes that the growth of Qatar’s cruise sector is essential to achieving the country’s National Tourism Strategy 2030. He highlights Qatar’s strategic alliances with top cruise lines, which enhance the nation’s status as a premier cruise destination in the Gulf and globally.
Key Highlights for the 2024/2025 Season:
- Surge in Arrivals: A 30% increase in cruise ship calls compared to last year.
- Passenger Growth: An expected 24.5% rise in cruise passengers, bringing a record number of visitors to Doha.
Major International Cruise Lines on Deck
Doha will host notable ships like MSC Euribia and Costa Smeralda, enhancing Qatar’s image as an attractive cruise destination. These high-profile arrivals underscore the quality and diversity of experiences that Qatar offers to tourists, strengthening its reputation in the global cruise industry.
Doha Port: Ready to Welcome Record Numbers
Doha Port, essential to Qatar’s tourism infrastructure, has expanded and modernized to accommodate the expected increase in cruise traffic. Capt. Abdullah Mohammed Al Khanji, CEO of Mwani Qatar, has confirmed that the port is fully equipped to handle the season’s demands, providing an exceptional experience for visitors and further solidifying Qatar’s place on the international cruise map.
Aligning with National Tourism Strategy 2030
Qatar’s growing cruise industry aligns with the goals of the National Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to diversify Qatar’s tourism offerings. The season’s robust cruise travel numbers reflect Qatar’s commitment to establishing itself as a versatile destination, appealing to both seasoned cruise-goers and first-time visitors from diverse regions.
A New Gateway for Global Travelers
For international tourists, particularly those from Europe and North America, Qatar offers an enticing alternative to traditional cruise destinations. Doha’s mix of modern attractions, historical sites, and authentic cultural experiences makes it a unique stop in the Middle Eastern cruise circuit, attracting a variety of travelers seeking fresh, enriching experiences.
Qatar as a Model for Emerging Cruise Destinations
Qatar’s 2024/2025 cruise season stands as a model for future growth in the cruise sector. By investing in infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and strengthening ties with international cruise operators, Qatar is setting an example for emerging destinations looking to tap into the global cruise market.
With its largest cruise season underway, Qatar is on a transformative journey to becoming a premier destination on the global cruise map, blending modern luxury with authentic Middle Eastern hospitality and culture. The impact of this growth will resonate far beyond Qatar’s borders, inspiring emerging regions and reshaping the cruise tourism landscape in the Gulf.
