ARABIAN GULF & INDIA CRUISES

As the first cruise line to home port in Abu Dhabi, we’re proud to introduce you to a vibrant region of culture, history and innovation in the United Arab Emirates and beyond.

Arabian Gulf & India Destinations

Our stunning destinations.

Arabian Gulf & India Ports of Call

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Suez Canal (Passage)
Egypt

We’ll take you cruising through the Suez Canal – the waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. Keep your camera ready to capture the unique sights and exotic wildlife.

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Cochin
India

One of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian coast of India, Kochi (also known as Cochin) was once known as the centre of the Indian spice trade.

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Goa (Mormugao)
India

How can you resist a place whose local motto is "Sossegade", which translates to: "take it easy"? Goa is home to high-end restaurants, picture-perfect beaches and fabulous shopping.

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Mumbai (Bombay)
India

The city previously known as Bombay pulsates with nonstop energy and excitement. And to think, it all began with cotton. Nowadays, this vibrant metropolis boasts a blend of many cultures.

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New Mangalore
India

Experience New Mangalore, a bustling city with rich historical influences. Surrounded by the rolling Sahyadri Mountains and rivers that flow toward the Arabian Sea, New Mangalore is uniquely dazzling.

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Aqaba
Jordan

Along the shores of the Red Sea, Aqaba is best known for the snorkelling and diving opportunities it offers. This seaside resort town also provides an array of desert activities.

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Muscat
Oman

As one of the Middle East's oldest cities, Muscat boasts beautifully manicured parks, long, unspoiled stretches of beach, and an ancient stone moat that surrounds the area.

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Colombo
Sri Lanka

The largest city in Sri Lanka is also one of the most vibrant stops in the Indian Ocean. Why not explore Colombo on a sightseeing tour in a three-wheeled tuk-tuk?

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Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates

The discovery of oil transformed Abu Dhabi from a fishing village into a thriving metropolis, but it hasn’t forgotten its past. Skyscrapers sit side by side with mosques and bazaars.

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Dubai
United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a unique blend of the old and new. On one end of the spectrum, you have "seven-star" luxury hotels and on the other, ancient souk markets selling spices.

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Sir Bani Yas Island
United Arab Emirates

Sir Bani Yas Island can be found to the south of Abu Dhabi and is the perfect destination for nature lovers due to its decades of conservation work and wildlife reserve.

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WHY CRUISE THE ARABIAN GULF & INDIA?

What the Arabian Gulf & India has to offer.

We’re excited to home port in Abu Dhabi, with its unique fusion of history and modern life. Start with a visit to Qasr al-Hosn, also known as the “White Fort”, which is the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi.

For something a little more adrenaline-fuelled, why not try sand skiing? Swap powdery snow for miles of rolling sand dunes in the Liwa Oasis, which offers some of the best sand skiing in the world. Onto Dubai, where maximalist is the name of the game – think sky-grazing buildings, gargantuan shopping malls, and of course, a manmade island in the shape of a palm.

On an Arabian Gulf and India cruise, we’ll also take you sailing to Sri Lanka, an island nation where crashing surf meets lush rainforests and ancient ruins.

Arabian Gulf & India FAQs

Answering your questions about the Arabian Gulf & India.

What should you wear in the Arabian Gulf, and what will the food be like in India? We answer all of your most frequently asked questions here.

Why are Arabian Gulf and India cruises popular?

A perpetually sunny climate and incredible shopping opportunities are both major draws when it comes to the Arabian Gulf and India. They’re also fascinating places to visit – the United Arab Emirates combine jaw-dropping modern architecture with intriguing remnants of the past.

Why cruise the Arabian Gulf and India?

On a cruise, you’ll get to see experience a number of destinations without the stress of arranging travel yourself. We also overnight in Abu Dhabi, to give you more of an opportunity to explore.

What are the top sights in the Arabian Gulf and India?

In Dubai, the majesty of the buildings will have you reaching for your camera. Start at 160-story Burj Khalifa and the luxurious Burj Al Arab. In Abu Dhabi, don’t miss the iconic Sheikh Zayed Mosque with its 82 white domes. In Mumbai, a visit to the Gateway of India is essential.

What should I pack for a trip to the Arabian Gulf and India?

When visiting these regions, you'll want to stay cool with loose and lightweight clothes. It's respectful to make sure clothing covers your arms and legs, particularly if you intend on visiting mosques or religious sites. Temperatures can reach the high 30s, so make sure to bring a sun hat, sunglasses and plenty of sun cream. Insect repellent is also a good idea.

What time zone are the Arabian Gulf and India in?

Countries across these regions observe GST (Gulf Standard Time) and IST (Indian Standard Time).

What is food like in the Arabian Gulf and India?

The United Arab Emirates enjoy a world-class dining scene, with many fine dining restaurants to discover. Traditional dishes include Al Harees – a porridge-style dish which combines meat and wheat. India is, of course, renowned for its depth of spice and flavourful dishes.

Is it safe to visit the Arabian Gulf and India?

The Arabian Gulf and India are generally considered safe destinations to visit. Travel to Egypt is not currently advised.

What languages are spoken in the Arabian Gulf and India?

Arabic is the official language of the UAE, while a mixture of Hindi and English are spoken in India.

ARABIAN GULF & INDIA HIGHLIGHTS

The best of the Arabian Gulf & India, handpicked by us.

Not sure where to start planning your Arabian Gulf and India cruise? Allow us to introduce you to this region with our hand-picked selection of highlights.

The spectacular mosque in Muscat, Oman.
The fabulous Madinat Jumeirah.
A view of Dubai's skyline.
Local fisherman's nets near Cochin, India.
Abu Dhabi's spectacular Grand Mosque.
Skyscrapers tower over Abu Dhabi.

WHEN TO VISIT THE ARABIAN GULF & INDIA

The best time to visit the Arabian Gulf & India, with Celebrity Cruises.

The Arabian Gulf and Indian regions tend to be at least warm all year-round, but some months can be uncomfortably hot for those unused to such high temperatures. The most popular months for cruising in this region are between October and March. In January, average temperatures sit at around 24 degrees Celsius.

You can also plan your cruise around one of the many events and festivals taking place in the region. The Abu Dhabi Festival occurs in March and celebrates strengthening ties between Abu Dhabi and the world. Sri Lanka is often said to have more festivals than anywhere else. Independence Day takes place in February and celebrates the country's independence with dances and parades.