

MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, has welcomed the expansion of the Cruise Arabia Alliance with the inclusion of Saudi Cruise and Qatar Tourism. The move marks a major step in strengthening the Arabian Gulf’s position as a premier global cruise tourism destination.
The expanded alliance aims to unlock the Gulf’s full maritime potential by promoting it as a sustainable international cruise hub connecting multiple destinations. It brings together regional partners committed to developing infrastructure, launching joint marketing campaigns, investing in port facilities and setting high operational standards across the cruise industry.
Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, said that expanding cooperation within the Cruise Arabia Alliance will significantly enhance Oman’s cruise tourism sector. “These partnerships will introduce diverse tourism programmes and experiences, offering visitors a wider variety of options while boosting regional collaboration”, he noted.
Al Busaidy added that Oman continues to adopt global best practices in developing its cruise sector, implementing targeted plans and promotional campaigns to showcase its unique attractions. The ministry is also coordinating with member countries to create specialised travel packages that cater to different types of visitors.
Khalid al Azri, Director of the Tourism Styles Department at the ministry, highlighted Oman’s strategic position as a key maritime gateway.
— ONA
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