The News section of The Cruise News Middle East delivers fast, verified reporting on global cruise developments with direct relevance to the GCC and wider MENA region. From fleet expansions to deployment shifts and commercial updates, we focus on what matters for travel professionals and informed cruisers.
Princess Cruises is celebrating a major victory as Royal Princess takes home the title of “World’s Best Culinary Cruise Ship” at the 2025 World Culinary Awards. Discover the standout dining venues that secured this prestigious honour.
Variety Cruises has secured a coveted place in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, earning a Top 10 ranking among the world’s leading small ship cruise lines. The honour highlights the company’s commitment to intimate, culturally immersive voyages.
Paul Gauguin Cruises has confirmed the continuation of its Moana Explorer family programme into 2027, with 12 dedicated sailings aboard m/s Paul Gauguin designed to educate and inspire young travellers across French Polynesia.
MSC Cruises has expanded its future fleet, signing an agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique for two more World-Class cruise vessels.
Princess Cruises has unveiled a fresh line of winter 2026 itineraries exploring Mexico’s picturesque Sea of Cortez, aimed at attracting
Cunard Line has announced the return of its iconic Queen Mary 2 to regular transatlantic service in 2026, coupled with
StarDream Cruises has revealed its refreshed 2026–27 Genting Dream program, offering expanded 2–5 night itineraries across Southeast Asia and the return of embarkations from Singapore, Port Klang and Melaka. Highlights include new island focused sailings and the return of the popular 5 night Bali cruise.
Saudi Arabia’s AROYA Cruises has completed its first full Mediterranean season, culminating in a high-profile return transit through the Suez Canal en route to relaunch Red Sea operations. The ship, originally built for Dream Cruises and acquired by AROYA in 2023, has undergone extensive refurbishment to offer a distinctly Arabian onboard experience with upgraded interiors and expanded amenities.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is targeting the Gulf Cooperation Council market as a key growth opportunity, especially during the shoulder
As the busy 2025/26 season approaches, MSC Cruises is shining a spotlight on its luxury Yacht Club product to capture
