This new season builds on Qatar’s successful 2023/2024 cruise period, which received 73 cruise ships and over 347,000 visitors
Qatar Tourism has inaugurated its 2024/2025 cruise season with the arrival of Resorts World One cruise ship, marking the first of 95 scheduled cruise calls expected to boost tourism significantly.
According to reports Qatar expects this season to be its largest to date, featuring 33 turnaround calls, 11 homeporting calls, and four maiden calls, including the visit of Resorts World One, that is set to make 23 visits and bring in approximately 72,000 passengers.
The statement adds that between November 2024 and April 2025, more than 430,000 passengers are anticipated to visit Qatar. With ships such as Mein Schiff 4, MSC Euribia, AIDAprima, Costa Smeralda, Norwegian Sky, and Celestyal Journey scheduled to dock, Qatar’s position as an international cruise hub continues to strengthen.
This new season builds on Qatar’s successful 2023/2024 cruise period, which received 73 cruise ships and over 347,000 visitors.
Qatar Tourism’s efforts to attract renowned international vessels are bolstering its reputation, with ships like MSC Virtuosa, Seabourn Encore and Norwegian Dawn having docked in Doha in previous years.
This growth highlights Qatar’s commitment to establishing itself as a top-tier global cruise destination.
Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji
“The growth of Qatar’s cruise sector is pivotal to achieving our National Tourism Strategy 2030. The 2024/2025 season is expected to see a 30 pc increase in cruise calls and 24.5 pc increase in visitors compared to the previous season, reflecting the growing demand for cruise vacations in the region,” says Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman, Qatar Tourism.
“With new partnerships and an increasing number of high-profile cruise lines visiting our shores, Qatar continues to position itself as a leading destination for cruise travellers worldwide,” Kharji adds.
Abdullah Mohammed Al Khanji
“Following last season’s record-breaking visitor numbers, we are thrilled to welcome an even greater influx of visitors from across the globe, solidifying Qatar’s position as a leading cruise destination. Doha Port is fully prepared to ensure an unforgettable experience for guests on 95 scheduled cruises in the 2024/2025 season,” says Abdullah Mohammed Al Khanji, CEO, Mwani Qatar.
“The remarkable increase in visitor numbers and cruise arrivals highlights the growing interest from cruise operators in choosing Doha Port, reflecting Qatar’s standing as a key cruise destination in the region. We are proud to work closely with Qatar Tourism and stakeholders to drive growth in Qatar’s marine tourism sector and to elevate its global presence in the travel industry, in line with the National Tourism Strategy 2030,” he adds.