Celestyal has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi and port developer AD Ports Group signifying an agreement of mutual promotion for the cruise line and the destination.
The parties signed the agreement at the Arabian Travel Market on May 8, forming a partnership where Celestyal pledged to promote Abu Dhabi as a “key destination” among its customers while the destination promised to raise the line’s profile in the region.
Celestyal will begin operating itineraries in the Persian Gulf later this year, with seven-day Desert Days cruises sailing roundtrip from Doha and calling at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Baniyas Island and Abu Dhabi.
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The line currently offers nine Abu Dhabi excursions, including theme park visits, beach days and desert safaris.
Celestyal Journey will operate the Desert Days sailings, but the line hinted it may deploy the other ship in its fleet, Celestyal Discovery, in the region as well in response to demand for the departures.
Celestyal chief commercial officer Lee Haslett said it was a “huge privilege” to sign the MOU with DCT Abu Dhabi, and thanked the department for its support.
“Our ethos has always been to proudly partner and showcase our fabulous destinations, building strong connections with the regions we visit,” he said.
“Abu Dhabi is a truly unique destinations and we are eagerly anticipating showcasing everything it has to offer to our guests.
“The cruise industry continues to attract record passenger numbers and we are looking forward to a successful first season that highlights the very best of this special region.”