Resorts World Cruises will sail the first cruise of its debut Arabian Gulf season from Dubai on November 1^st, coinciding with Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

The cruise line’s ship Resorts World One will sail a range of itineraries to Sir Bani Yas, Muscat and Doha from Dubai, offering cruises of 2 nights to one week in length, but the first cruise is expected to be especially popular with the UAE’s Indian expatriate population.

Aboard Resorts World One, guests will be able to fully celebrate the Festival of Light as the ship will be colourfully decorated and brightly lit with exciting Diwali inspired activities, entertainment, a “Gujarat food festival”, and sweets and desserts during the entire week of celebration.

These entertainment and experiences will be offered alongside the cruise line’s regular programming of events for the Arabian Gulf season, which includes a high energy ‘Dazzling Departure Party’, a ‘Twilight Soirée’ featuring a dinner show, and an ‘Enchanting Arabian Nights Party’ and ‘Sand & Oasis Party’ under the stars.

A ‘Bollywood Party’ will also be held in the ship’s nightclub, and a bubble-licious ‘Foam Party’ will take place on the ship’s pool deck; water-splashing ‘Rain Party’; ‘Family Pyjama Party under the Stars’ and more will also be available.

Stage production shows such as ‘Trustfall’, ‘Rhythm & Balance’, ‘Love Matters’ and more will also be available every night in two sittings before or after dinner, while throughout the ship there will also be a range of activities from Dance Classes, including Belly Dancing, Ballroom, Japanese, Flamenco etc.; as well as Kids, Teen and Family Karaoke, Outdoor Inflatable Games, Little Dreamers edutainment programs and more.

In a further sign of how significant it believes the local cruise market to be, Resort World Cruises will ensure that its vessel Resorts World One receives the official OIC/SMIIC Standard Halal-Friendly Cruise Ship certification.

The certification lets Muslim guests cruise with peace of mind knowing that cuisine at all venues throughout the ship comply with UAE Halal standards.

Other Halal-Friendly onboard offerings will also be accessible, including same-gender services for selected facilities and venues. In a nod to the UAE’s sizeable Indian expat population, certified vegetarian and Jain cuisine are also available.

Onboard public announcements will be made in both English and Arabic for the convenience of the onboard guests, and shisha will be available onboard.

“We appreciate the efforts of the cruise line in fully assessing the needs of the market and offering a comprehensive world-class holiday to travellers from the region and around the world,” said Saud Mohammed Saeed Hareb, Cruise Tourism & Yachting Lead, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

“We look forward to welcoming the first passengers onboard Resorts World One and providing them the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience, particularly in Dubai itself where they will begin and end their cruise journeys and be able to take advantage of the wide range of offerings across the city,” he added.

Resorts World Cruises Dubai itineraries

(2-nights Friday-Sunday) Over the weekend, explore the famous Sir Bani Yas Island known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife park with over 17,000 animals.

(3-nights Sunday to Wednesday) During the week, discover Oman’s cities, Muscat and Khasab, from its stunning mountain landscape to sandy beaches and beautiful lagoons; and centuries of rich historical wonders and architectures.

(2-nights Wednesday to Friday) Passengers can also choose to cruise to Doha, Qatar, a melting pot of cultures and nationalities where old meets new with adventurous activities from dune bashing to camel races and more.

These itineraries can also be combined into 4, 5 or 7-night voyages.