The inaugural Connections Cruise Arabia Leadership Summit has concluded in Dubai, signalling the Gulf’s growing ambition to position itself as a global hub for cruise tourism. The two-day event was held aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 at Port Rashid, bringing together nearly 200 senior executives, government officials, and travel industry leaders.
Backed by major players such as Emirates Airline, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Cruise Saudi, Ponant, Celestyal, and MSC Cruises, the summit underscored the Gulf’s capacity to reshape the global cruise landscape.
Market Outlook and Rising Demand
The event unveiled the Cruise Insight Report, which showed the global cruise market diversifying fast. Expedition voyages are booming, with capacity forecast to rise 150% between 2019 and 2029, while luxury cruising is projected to attract 1.5 million travellers annually by 2028. The average cruise passenger is now 46, with more than a third under 40, reflecting a generational shift in demand. Speakers highlighted the Middle East’s advantages—strategic location, modern infrastructure, and strong government support. Saudi Arabia alone aims to create 50,000 jobs and open 10 Red Sea ports as part of its cruise development strategy.
Building a Regional Hub
Industry leaders stressed that the Gulf offers a compelling mix of value, cultural immersion, and seamless connections. Emirates Airline noted its expanding role in air-sea travel integration, while cruise operators pointed to growing traveller appetite for sustainability, conservation, and community engagement. Clive Jacobs, Founder and Chairman of Jacobs Media, organiser of the summit, said the event marked the start of a new era: “Together we have an opportunity to position this region as an epicentre for cruise tourism that can redefine the sector.”
The summit also set the stage for an expanded forum in 2026, designed to bring together more cruise leaders, suppliers, and travel agents for curated business meetings, panels, and networking. Supported by leading global cruise lines and CLIA, the region’s growing profile underscores its determination to become a cornerstone of the world’s cruise industry.
