MSC Arabian Gulf

MSC Cruises has announced that it is introducing new, extended two-week cruises in the Gulf on its latest flagship, MSC Bellissima, for this winter, with Doha in Qatar, as a new embarkation port. Thanks to a new partnership with Qatar Airways, guests will also be able to fly from London to Doha as part of a Fly&Cruise package with the five-star-rated airline, offering total peace of mind. On arrival in Doha, guests have all day to explore the fascinating city before a sunset departure. 

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO, commented: “We are committed to constantly enriching our itineraries and providing our guests with as many options as possible – that’s why we’re delighted to introduce a new 14-night cruise to our already diverse offering in the Gulf. We now offer a third embarkation port in this region with the addition of Doha, Qatar. We have also introduced a new partnership with Qatar Airways that will make this a convenient and easily accessible port. With these new additions, we’re able to offer a wide choice of cruises to suit any guest looking for a winter-sun holiday in the ever-popular Gulf region.” 

During these exclusive 14-night cruises, guests will be able to explore a rich array of destinations, with a total of nine ports, including: Dubai – where two overnights gives plenty of time to explore the world’s tallest building, glitzy shopping malls, and bustling nightlife scene. Abu Dhabi – with an eclectic mix of some of the world’s most renowned cultural hotspots such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World theme park or Yas Waterworld waterpark. Sir Bani Yas – this island destination, just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, is an exclusive haven for MSC Cruises’ guests on the day of the ship’s call. This beach oasis has areas for relaxing, sunbathing and swimming. 

Other ports include: Muscat, Oman – one of the oldest cities in the Middle East where guests can visit sites such as the Portuguese fort and Muttrah’s Souq - a must-see destination. Khasab, Oman - the most northern city in the Emirates, founded by the Portuguese at the beginning of the 17^th century. Bahrain – known for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort). 

MSC Cruises will deploy two ships in the Gulf from November 2019 to March 2020. MSC Lirica will offer 11-night cruises as well as 14-night cruises that call also at ports in India. In addition to the new 14-night itineraries, MSC Bellissima is also offering seven-night Gulf cruises embarking in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi.