48 Demand for cruises in the Middle East is on the rise, with TUI Cruises forecasting that it will take 90,000 passengers to the region in 2026. With modern, well-equipped ports and an expanding portfolio of cultural and nature-based attractions, the region continues to draw growing investment from international cruise lines. Reflecting its confidence in the market, TUI Cruises will deploy two ships to the Arabian Gulf during the winter 2026/2027 season, including its newest and largest vessel, Mein Schiff Flow. Launching in July 2026, the 3,984-passenger vessel will mark a milestone for TUI Cruises, becoming the first ship in its fleet to begin service in Europe and then reposition to the Middle East for the winter season. “We are sending our biggest vessel because we are confident in the region’s developments,” said Maria Tauschke, head of shore operations at TUI Cruises at Seatrade Europe, during a session on ‘The Middle East Cruise Outlook’. For the 2026/27 winter season, Mein Schiff Flow will operate seven-night cruises in the Arabian Gulf, calling at Doha in Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. “For the very first time since TUI Cruises was founded, we are able to position two ships in the Arabian Sea, out of Dubai and Doha, which gives us much more capacity in the market that our guests enjoy,” says Marcus Puttich, director of destinations at TUI Cruises. The decision reflects both operational ambition and market confidence. Tauschke praised the region’s rapid development, reliable weather and growing diversity of destinations, describing the Middle East as a place guests can visit repeatedly and always find new experiences. Before beginning its Middle East deployment, Mein Schiff Flow will MAIDEN SEASON Mein Schiff Flow The new TUI Cruises ship will sail in the Western Mediterranean from July 2026, before relocating to the Arabian Gulf for its winter season Photo: iStock/trabantos Oman has multiple choices for cultural excursions including a visit to Nizwa’s 17th century Jabreen Castle
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