StarDream Cruises is setting its sights on the Middle East’s growing fly-cruise market, with plans to return to Dubai following renewed interest from regional travellers following its rebrand.
The company recently reported increased demand from the Arabian Gulf, and has hosted a MICE group of around 70 passengers from Dubai who joined a sailing aboard the Genting Dream from Singapore.
According to Naresh Rawal, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at StarDream Cruises, this early engagement signals clear momentum from the region’s outbound cruise market.
The development comes as StarDream Cruises celebrates the relaunch of its two flagship brands, Star Cruises and Dream Cruises, marking a new phase for a company that pioneered modern cruising in Asia more than three decades ago.
The relaunch follows a period of restructuring after the collapse of Genting Hong Kong, during which Star Cruises operated as Resorts World Cruises. The line previously spent a season homeporting in the Arabian Gulf before being folded back into the relaunched Star Cruises under the StarDream Cruises umbrella.
Currently, the company’s three ships are deployed across Asia, with Genting Dream based in Singapore, and Star Navigator and Star Voyager sailing from Hong Kong and Taiwan.
StarDream Cruises plans to visit Dubai later this year to meet travel partners and promote its Asian deployments, which are of growing interest to Gulf travellers seeking short-haul fly-cruise options.
The two brands now operate under distinct market positions. Star Cruises focuses on affordable, family-oriented cruising, while Dream Cruises offers a premium experience with larger suites and upmarket facilities.
“Our itineraries are colourful, diverse and appealing, and go beyond the beaten track,” said Michael Goh, StarDream Cruises President. “From Singapore we sail to Malaysia and Thailand, while our longer itineraries reach Japan, Korea and China. We even call at less-travelled destinations such as North Bali, which many cruise lines miss.
“Our two- to five-night sailings are particularly suitable for travellers from the Middle East who want to experience Asia in depth,” he added.
StarDream Cruises continues to adapt its offering to regional preferences, including halal-friendly dining options and new onboard activities such as pickleball.
The company sees sustained growth potential in key sectors such as fly-cruise travel, MICE business and multi-generational holidays, supported by a focus on wellness and localised cultural experiences, all aspects that resonated well with the Middle East market in 2024.
“What makes Star Cruises and Dream Cruises different is that we localise our operations while maintaining an international atmosphere,” said Goh.
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