Resorts World One To Commence Dubai Sailings With Halal-Friendly Options

Resorts World Cruises, with the support of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), announced the launch of Resorts World One in the Gulf. Starting 1 November 2024, the cruise ship will homeport in Dubai at DP World's Mina Port Rashid. It will offer three weekly departures: a 2 Night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise on Fridays, a 3 Night Oman (Khasab-Muscat) Cruise on Sundays, and a 2 Night Doha Cruise on Wednesdays. Passengers can combine these itineraries for longer cruises of up to seven nights.

Resorts World Cruises is known for its expertise in catering to Asian markets and will bring this experience to the Gulf. The Resorts World One will receive OIC/SMIIC Standard Halal-Friendly Cruise Ship certification upon starting its Dubai operations. This ensures that Muslim guests can enjoy certified Halal cuisines sourced from UAE suppliers. Other Halal-friendly offerings include same-gender services for selected facilities and venues. Additionally, vegetarian and Jain cuisine options will be available, with public announcements made in English and Arabic.

"These are exciting times for Resorts World Cruises," said Mr. Michael Goh, President of Resorts World Cruises. "The response from the Gulf and various Asian markets has been very encouraging. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard soon." He added that their deployment in the Gulf would open new opportunities for Dubai as a premier cruise region.

Saud Mohammed Saeed Hareb from Dubai DET highlighted the importance of cruise tourism in Dubai's growth strategy. "This partnership with Resorts World Cruises underscores our commitment to offering diverse cruise experiences," he said. "We appreciate their efforts in assessing market needs and providing world-class holidays to travellers." He expressed excitement about welcoming the first passengers onboard Resorts World One.

The launch coincides with Diwali, attracting a wider expat demographic and inbound Fly-Cruise segment to Dubai. Guests can expect specially curated performances inspired by Gulf and Asian cultures. The ship will be decorated for Diwali, featuring activities like a Gujarat food festival, sweets, and desserts throughout the week-long celebration.

Entertainment and Activities

Guests can enjoy day-to-night parties starting with the high-energy 'Dazzling Departure Party’. Other themed events include 'Twilight Soirée’, 'Enchanting Arabian Nights Party’, 'Sand & Oasis Party’, 'Bollywood Party’, 'Foam Party’, 'Rain Party’, and 'Family Pyjama Party under the Stars’. Stage productions such as 'Trustfall’, 'Rhythm & Balance’, and 'Love Matters’ will also be featured.

Activities onboard cater to all ages, including dance classes like Belly Dancing, Ballroom, Japanese, Flamenco, Kids Karaoke, Teen Karaoke, Family Karaoke, Outdoor Inflatable Games, and Little Dreamers edutainment programs.

Over weekends, passengers can explore Sir Bani Yas Island's beaches and wildlife park or visit Oman's Muscat and Khasab cities known for their landscapes and historical sites. Another option is cruising to Doha, Qatar, which offers activities like dune bashing and camel races.

"The Omani Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is preparing to ensure genuine experiences for Resorts World Cruises," said Mr. Khalid Al Azri from Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. This initiative is significant for Oman’s plans to operate 11 ports by April 2025.

Maryam Saoud from Qatar Tourism expressed excitement about welcoming Resorts World Cruises to. "Qatar Tourism's Cruise Season 2024-2025 is expected to be our largest yet," she said. "We look forward to updating visitors with new offerings soon."
For those seeking luxury at sea, The Palace offers an all-suite enclave with private amenities, exclusive restaurants, and 24-hour butler service. Resorts World Cruises also announced a partnership with DP World focusing on homeporting at Port Rashid.