Celestyal’s expanded shorex programme offers backstage travel pass to Arabian Gulf

Celestyal Cruises has unveiled an expanded shore excursion programme for its new Iconic Arabia itineraries, offering what it describes as a backstage travel pass to some of the Arabian Gulf’s most distinctive destinations.

The enhanced programme will debut aboard Celestyal Discovery from December 12th, 2025, when the cruise line launches its new three-, four-, and seven-night Iconic Arabia cruises sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi.

The development follows a three-year agreement signed earlier this year between Celestyal and the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, strengthening the company’s regional presence.

The new shore excursions are designed to provide deeper cultural engagement and more personalised experiences across the Gulf, with Celestyal Discovery’s itinerary including calls at Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and Sir Bani Yas Island in the UAE, as well as Doha in Qatar and Khasab in Oman.

“Our new ‘Iconic Arabia’ shore excursions offer what we call a true backstage travel pass to the Arabian Gulf – giving guests insider access to the rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that defines the region,” said Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer. “From the futuristic skyline of Dubai to the serene shores of Sir Bani Yas Island and the treasures of Ras Al Khaimah, each experience connects travellers with the authentic spirit of the destination.”

The expanded shorex line-up introduces half-day, full-day and two-day options under the line’s Authentic Encounters banner, where small-group excursions are designed to facilitate meaningful interactions with local communities, traditions, and landscapes.

Among the new offerings is a full-day guided tour of Ras Al Khaimah priced at US$260 per person, featuring a desert dunes drive, visits to the royal camel racing stables, and an Emirati date farm. Another key addition is the House of Pearls by Suwaidi Pearls experience, a US$123 per person excursion that includes Ras Al Khaimah’s Old Town and Dhayah Fort.

In Dubai, guests can opt for a US$79 half-day tour including the Museum of the Future, Ain Dubai observation wheel, and a drive to Zabeel Palace, the official residence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Culinary travellers can also choose a US$139 food and culture tour in Abu Dhabi, or a full-day US$153 visit to Yas Island to explore its water park attractions.

The expanded programme represents a significant step in Celestyal’s efforts to position itself as a key player in the emerging Arabian Gulf cruise market, blending its Eastern Mediterranean heritage with the region’s growing appeal as a winter cruise destination.