Celestyal has signed a three-year agreement with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi). This multi-year collaboration, signed at the Seatrade Global event in Miami, will see Abu Dhabi promoted as a key destination to Celestyal guests, further strengthening the cruise line's ties with the region.

Celestyal will return to the region in December with two ships, calling at Abu Dhabi three times a week throughout the winter season until March 2026.

Last year, Celestyal launched the 7-day “Desert Days” itinerary with the 1260-passenger Celestyal Journey, departing from Doha and including Bahrain, Dubai, Hassa, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. The successful first season lasted from November to March 2025. It is stated that this route will continue for at least three seasons.

The refurbished 1360-passenger Celestyal Discovery will join the region and depart from Abu Dhabi from December 12, 2025. It will operate 3, 4 and 7-night "Iconic Arabia" tours. Three-night weekend trips departing from Abu Dhabi will call at Dubai and Sir Bani Yas Island, combining beach and wildlife safaris. The 4-night weekday tours will visit Doha, Ras Al Khaimah and Khasab in Oman.

The 3-night trip, which includes all meals, soft drinks and Wi-Fi, starts from 618 Euros per person, and a 4-night tour starts from 778 Euros. Celestyal's land tours include nine different excursions to the heart of Abu Dhabi. These include half-day city tours, gastronomy and culture explorations, theme park visits, VIP beach days and classic desert safaris.

A destination that stands out with its diversity and fascinating nature

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer of Celestyal, made the following statement regarding the cooperation: “It is a great privilege for us to sign this three-year agreement with DCT Abu Dhabi, and we are grateful for their support in bringing this partnership to life. Abu Dhabi is a destination that stands out with its diversity and fascinating nature. That's why we are very excited to not only use it as a main port, but also to stop here three times a week during the winter season. Abu Dhabi is an ideal place for our guests seeking culturally rich and in-depth experiences. Together with our agency partners, we look forward to promoting everything this city has to offer. The cruise industry in the Arabian Gulf is preparing to welcome a record number of passengers in the coming years. After a successful first season in the region, we will continue to offer our guests the best aspects of this special geography.”