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The Middle East has been rapidly developing its cruise tourism industry over the past few years, with
several countries in the region investing heavily in infrastructure and facilities to attract more cruise
passengers.
Dubai, in particular, has emerged as a major cruise liner hub in the Middle East, with its state-of-the-art
cruise terminal and strategic location between Europe and Asia making it an attractive port of call for
many cruise lines. The Dubai Cruise Terminal is the biggest in the Middle East and can accommodate up to
seven mega cruise ships at the same time.
Other countries in the region that have been investing in their cruise tourism infrastructure include Oman,
Bahrain, and Qatar. Oman has developed a new cruise terminal at Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat, while
Bahrain has built a new terminal at the Khalifa Bin Salman Port in Hidd. Qatar has also built a new cruise
terminal at the Doha Port, which is operational since 2022.
With its warm climate, rich cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, the Middle East has a lot to offer
cruise passengers. As the region continues to invest in its cruise tourism industry, it is likely that more and
more cruise lines will start to include the Middle East in their itineraries, making it a new hub for the cruise
liner industry.
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