DUBAI, ABU DHABI AND QATAR CRUISES

Q: What is the currency in the UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kingdom of Bahrain?

Each country has its own currency. The UAE uses the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED), Qatar uses the Qatari riyal (QAR), Bahrain uses the Bahraini dinar (BHD) and the Omani rial (OMR) is used in Oman.

Q: How long is a cruise to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar?

Most of MSC Cruises’ routes around the Arabian Gulf are seven-night round-trips . This is plenty of time to immerse yourself in the appealing blend of modern urbanity and storied history you’ll find throughout the region, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Bahrain – alongside time for relaxation on Sir Bani Yas Island. Another option is a six-night round-trip cruise departing from Abu Dhabi , visiting Dubai, Bahrain and Doha on route. If you're short on time and just want a taste of the region, opt for a three-night escape from Abu Dhabi to Dubai , including a delightful day of exploration and rest on Sir Bani Yas Island .

Emirates cruises, Abu Dhabi - Sheikh Zayed Mosque | MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises’ Emirates cruises unveil glamour, adventure and beauty as they whisk you to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar and other Arabian Gulf gems.

Our cruises in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar in 2025 and 2026 are your ticket to unforgettable adventures, where modern luxury meets timeless desert beauty. Come aboard and start experiencing the glamour, stunning landscapes and deep heritage of the Arabian Peninsula’s cities and islands.

Before embarking on your Dubai cruise, soar to dizzying heights at the world’s tallest building, discover a floral wonderland in the desert and indulge in a shopping spree in a village-sized mall or exotic souks.

Emirates cruises also drop anchor in Abu Dhabi, known for headline attractions like the Emirates Palace hotel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Note to daredevils: don’t miss the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World.

Many Dubai and Abu Dhabi cruise itineraries stop at remote Sir Bani Yas Island, where you can observe gazelles and oryx in the wild or soak up the sun on pristine beaches. Some ships sail on to Doha, Qatar’s dynamic capital, and to Bahrain, both offering spectacular skylines and world-class museums.

Extend your Dubai holidays by venturing to Oman to experience the traditional charm of its capital, Muscat, or the unique desert fjords near Khasab.

Discover the magic of Arabia: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar

A cruise to the United Arab Emirates connects you with fairytale-like destinations around the Arabian Gulf.
Before embarking on your Dubai cruise, take in the jaw-dropping wonders of this superlative-craving emirate and prepare for an entirely new kind of holiday.
Don’t leave without tapping into the secrets of the souks, taking a peaceful sunset ride on an abra (a traditional wooden boat) across Dubai Creek or exploring the golden desert dunes.
Further south, Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital, is packed with show-stoppers, from the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to serene mangrove forests and the world’s only Louvre outpost, a photogenic masterpiece filled with art.
Curious about other Gulf destinations beyond the UAE? Dubai and Abu Dhabi cruise itineraries include stops in the region’s other top destinations, from vibrant Qatar and mystical Oman to the cosmopolitan Kingdom of Bahrain.

Emirates cruises, Dubai - Souk | MSC Cruises

Emirates cruises, Abu Dhabi - Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum | MSC Cruises

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

An Emirates cruise with MSC Cruises reveals a land where ancient traditions meet the visions of tomorrow. Nowhere is this fusion more evident than in Dubai, where the Burj Khalifa and a glittering skyline rise above the Arabian Desert. In traditional souks, best reached by abra (wooden boat), shop for saffron, perfume and gold as traders have done for centuries.

Next on your UAE cruise is Abu Dhabi, the capital, which puts a premium on art, culture and heritage. An Abu Dhabi cruise allows for wandering in the marble-domed Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, where global masterpieces glow under a sunlight-dappled dome.

But United Arab Emirates holidays wouldn’t be complete without a stop on Sir Bani Yas Island, a former royal retreat where luxury meets wilderness. Unwind on pristine beaches, indulge in a massage, kayak through luscious mangroves or take a wildlife safari.

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Emirates cruises, Doha - Dafna district | MSC Cruises

Emirates cruises, Doha - Museum of Islamic Art | MSC Cruises

QATAR CRUISES

Catch a glimpse of the future on a trip to Qatar on a Doha cruise. You’ll be greeted by an imposing skyline anchored by the Aspire Tower, its torch-like design a symbol of the emirate’s vision and ambition.

Nearby, the sprawling Doha Sports City (known as Aspire Zone) echoes with the legacy of global events, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, while The Pearl, an ultramodern human-made island, showcases Doha’s forward-thinking spirit.

But even in this high-tech oasis, Qatar’s ancient soul still pulses strongly. During holidays to Doha, discover the hidden treasures of the Souq Waqif and immerse yourself in local history at the architecturally stunning National Museum of Qatar.

If you’re more into outdoor adventure, explore Doha by bike or by kayak, or go off-road across sand dunes to a mystical ‘inland sea’ for a desert safari. When you book one of our Doha cruises, you’re in for a trip like no other.

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Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar ports

With MSC’s United Arab Emirates cruises, you can launch your Arabian adventure from three vibrant port cities. Whether it’s the iconic skyline of Dubai, the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi or the contemporary elegance of Doha, each city sets the stage for an unforgettable journey.

DUBAI CRUISES

A cruise to Dubai transports you to a world of wonders and surprises. Gaze down on towering skyscrapers from the Burj Khalifa, the planet’s tallest building. Get lost in Dubai Mall, home to over 1,200 shops, an aquarium and even a dinosaur skeleton, or dive into the traditional souks, where spices and shimmering gold (in the glittering Dubai Gold Souk) evoke a magical feeling.

Walk on the wild side during your Dubai cruise in the Dubai Miracle Garden, a floral oasis blooming in the desert. From boutique shopping on Jumeirah Road to sun-soaked beaches to gleaming architectural triumph at the resplendent Jumeirah Mosque, your holiday to Dubai will fill your memory bank with happy moments.

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Emirates cruises, Abu Dhabi - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque | MSC Cruises

ABU DHABI CRUISES

Your Abu Dhabi cruise drops you into the official and cultural capital of the UAE. Glittering skyscrapers have earned it the nickname ‘Manhattan of Arabia’, but its spiritual centre is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. No holiday to Abu Dhabi is complete without visiting this symphony in marble, crystal and gold leaf accommodating 40,000 worshippers.

Another masterpiece is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, where sunlight filters through a mesmerising ‘floating’ dome, sheltering work by renowned artists. Or consider a boat trip over to the nearby island of Halat al Bahrani for some beach time. A final highlight of your cruise to Abu Dhabi is Ferrari World, home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster.

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DOHA CRUISES

Embark on a cruise to Doha for a journey packed with action and ancient learnings. Check the collection of the National Museum of Qatar in a striking building by French architect Jean Nouvel, and the UNESCO-designated Al Zubarah fort. Shop for souvenirs – spices, handicrafts, carpets and gold – in the amazing maze of the Souq Waqif.

Explore Qatar's natural charms during your Doha cruise by navigating a cinematic dunescape in a four-wheel drive or peeking across Khor Al Adaid, an inland sea bordering Saudi Arabia. Then head to Al Thakhira to kayak through mangroves that attract herons and flamingos. After dark, savour a feast in a comfortable desert camp as the moon lights up the night sky.

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CRUISES TO DUBAI, ABU DHABI AND QATAR FAQs

For many people, the best time to embark on cruises in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar is between November and March, a period when the Arabian Gulf transforms into an oasis of perfect weather and cultural vibrancy. Sunny days with clear blue skies create the perfect backdrop for exploring the cities and deserts, while balmy evenings invite outdoor dining and moonlit waterfront strolls.

During these cooler months, your United Arab Emirates holidays will be both comfortable and unforgettable. Imagine standing on the deck of your UAE cruise, watching the cities’ glittering skylines. Seasonal happenings and festivals – including the bargain-filled Dubai Shopping Festival, the thrilling Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and various events at the stunning Dubai Miracle Garden – are all in full swing during this time.

It’s also possible to visit Bahrain during a cruise to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar, where cultural venues like Bahrain National Museum and architectural treasures like the Al Fateh Grand Mosque ensure that the excitement and insights continue at every stop.

MSC Cruises’ United Arab Emirates cruises make it effortless to experience this vibrant region without breaking a sweat.

MSC Cruises’ Emirates cruises sail from November through March, perfectly timed for when the Arabian Gulf region enjoys its best weather. These months welcome you with temperatures that comfortably sit between 24°C to 31°C, while evenings are a pleasant 14°C to 20°C.

It’s an ideal period to escape chilly European winters and enjoy travel, outdoor pursuits and seasonal events under sunny skies, all without excessive heat or humidity. This means you can keep enjoying a huge range of both indoor and outdoor activities with ease, and without any weather worries.

MSC Cruises operates from three major ports in the Arabian Gulf: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the largest and most important of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, while Doha is the capital of Qatar, a peninsula jutting out from Saudi Arabia, approximately 500 kilometres west of the UAE.

Many itineraries also include a stop at Sir Bani Yas Island, an offshore nature reserve belonging to Abu Dhabi and located about halfway between Abu Dhabi and Qatar. Some routes venture to Manama, the capital of Bahrain, a tiny island kingdom northwest of Qatar. Additionally, there are two ports of call in Oman: Muscat, the capital on the Indian Ocean, and Khasab, the main settlement in the Omani exclave of Musandam, roughly 200 kilometres north of Dubai.

Here’s the good news: your dream cruise in the Emirates doesn’t have to be just a dream, as MSC Cruises offers a wide range of cruises in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar to suit all budgets. Peruse our deals and find a ticket to your own Arabian adventure. Enjoy great food, fun activities and new experiences onboard and on-shore, all without breaking the bank.

Packing for your holidays in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar means preparing for warm weather, stylish outings and cultural sensitivity. It’s smart to bring a mix of practical and fashionable items to be ready for diverse and exciting experiences during your cruise.

For the most part, pack comfortable summer outfits like lightweight tops, shorts and skirts made from breathable fabrics. However, be mindful that in Muslim countries, it’s respectful to wear clothing that covers shoulders and midriffs in public areas.

An essential item to bring on your Dubai cruise is a light jacket or jumper – you’ll need this in the evenings and also when in some indoor spaces like malls, museums and restaurants, which can feel much cooler due to strong air-conditioning.

Don’t forget sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the Arabian sun. Swimwear is essential for beaches or in pools, but should be worn in those places only.

If a desert safari is part of your itinerary on Emirates cruises, pack outdoor clothes and sneakers to keep comfortable and protected from the sand.

Dress to impress during Gala Night onboard and when dining out in the trendy restaurants you’ll find many of, especially in Dubai.

Each country has its own currency. The UAE uses the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED), Qatar uses the Qatari riyal (QAR), Bahrain uses the Bahraini dinar (BHD) and the Omani rial (OMR) is used in Oman.

When on United Arab Emirates holidays, be aware that the UAE and Oman are on Gulf Standard Time (GST), which is four hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and three hours ahead of British Summer Time (BST). Meanwhile, those on holidays to Doha, Qatar’s capital, should remember that, like Bahrain, Qatar is on Arabian Standard Time (AST), which is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and two hours ahead of British Summer Time (BST).
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Most of MSC Cruises’ routes around the Arabian Gulf are seven-night round-trips. This is plenty of time to immerse yourself in the appealing blend of modern urbanity and storied history you’ll find throughout the region, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Bahrain – alongside time for relaxation on Sir Bani Yas Island.

Another option is a six-night round-trip cruise departing from Abu Dhabi, visiting Dubai, Bahrain and Doha on route. If you're short on time and just want a taste of the region, opt for a three-night escape from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, including a delightful day of exploration and rest on Sir Bani Yas Island.

MSC Cruises' Fly-cruise packages for Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar are available from the following airports in the UK and Ireland: London Heathrow, Birmingham, Manchester and Dublin, Ireland. All flights land in Abu Dhabi, ensuring a stylish start to any holiday.

FLY & CRUISE GUESTS

Please be advised that the Doha Cruise Terminal opens at 8:30 AM. For security reasons, access to the port area will not be possible prior to this time. Upon your arrival at Doha Airport, after picking up your luggage, representatives from MSC Cruises and Discover Qatar will be ready to greet you and take you to the B12 Beach Club, where you can relax and enjoy the modern amenities while awaiting boarding. To make your time at the B12 Beach Club enjoyable, we recommend keeping summer attire easily accessible in your luggage.

CRUISE ONLY GUESTS

Please be advised that the Doha Cruise Terminal opens at 8:30 AM. For security reasons, access to the port area will not be possible prior to this time. If you arranged your own flights and transportation from Doha Airport, please make sure you arrive at the port after this time.

According to local regulations, once you enter the cruise terminal, you are considered to have left the country and cannot re-enter or visit the city (except for the departure on December 1st with overnight in Doha). If you'd like to explore Doha before MSC Euribia’ s departure, you are welcome to drop your luggage at the terminal and return by 2:00 PM. If you wish to book a tour of Doha before the ship departs, our Shore Excursions team will be delighted to assist you. You can find them at the terminal's luggage drop-off area. Tours will depart at approximately 10:30 AM.

An Emirates cruise with MSC Cruises immerses you in a world where ancient traditions and futuristic visions coexist. In Dubai, the towering Burj Khalifa and a glittering skyline dominate the horizon, while down below, bustling souks offer timeless treasures like saffron, perfume and gold. Glide across the creek on a traditional wooden boat (known as an abra) and experience the city's contrasting aesthetics, making for a fascinating cityscape. Don’t miss Dubai Mall, an indoor playground boasting over 1,200 shops and a dinosaur skeleton.

Another memorable stop during United Arab Emirates holidays is Abu Dhabi, the capital city, whose identity is shaped by commerce, art, culture and history. Marvel at the majestic marble-domed Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi, where masterpieces are displayed below a perforated dome surrounded by water. Ferrari World is a must for speed-chasers, if only to earn bragging rights for having braved the world’s fastest rollercoaster.

The futuristic skyline of Doha, Qatar’s capital, is dominated by the torch-like Aspire Tower, contrasting sharply with the bustling Souq Waqif, where the scent of spices, perfume and street food fills the air. Other key experiences on holidays to Doha include visiting the unique Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum and its 15,000-plus items or venturing through Qatar's sand dunes in a four-wheel drive to the stunning and mysterious ‘inland sea’ of Khor Al Adaid.

DUBAI, ABU DHABI AND QATAR CRUISES