Celestyal enters a strategic agreement with Abu Dhabi’s tourism department.
- The alliance aims to mutually promote the cruise line and Abu Dhabi as a destination.
- Celestyal plans to introduce Persian Gulf itineraries, including a stop at Abu Dhabi.
- The cruise line hints at deploying an additional ship due to demand.
- Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett praises the collaboration as a significant milestone.
In a significant move to expand its presence in the Middle East, Celestyal has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi alongside port developer AD Ports Group. This partnership signifies a mutual promotional agreement designed to enhance the visibility of both the Celestyal cruise line and Abu Dhabi as a premier travel destination.
The agreement, formalised during the Arabian Travel Market on May 8, represents a crucial step forward for Celestyal, as they pledge to market Abu Dhabi as a ‘key destination’ to their customers. In return, Abu Dhabi commits to elevating Celestyal’s profile within the region, showcasing the unique offerings of the cruise line.
Celestyal is set to commence its Persian Gulf itineraries later this year, featuring the seven-day ‘Desert Days’ cruises. These excursions will embark on round trips from Doha, incorporating stops at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Baniyas Island, and notably, Abu Dhabi. The introduction of these itineraries marks a bold venture into a burgeoning market, offering passengers a blend of cultural and leisure activities across the Gulf.
Currently, Celestyal offers a range of nine excursions in Abu Dhabi, which include engaging activities such as theme park visits, serene beach days, and thrilling desert safaris. These excursions are designed to cater to diverse interests, providing enriching experiences that highlight the versatility of Abu Dhabi as a tourist attraction.
There is further anticipation surrounding Celestyal’s potential deployment of an additional vessel, the Celestyal Discovery, in the region. This possibility arises from an increase in demand for these uniquely crafted voyages. Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the privilege it is for Celestyal to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi. He emphasised the strategic importance of this alliance, noting the burgeoning passenger numbers in the cruise industry.
This partnership marks a pivotal expansion for Celestyal and highlights the growing allure of Abu Dhabi in the cruising sector.
