Gulf cruises paused as US-Iran conflict prompts cancellations and port stays

Cruise operations across the Arabian Gulf remain paused this week as regional airspace closures and maritime restrictions disrupt scheduled sailings, leaving several vessels in port while operators coordinate with authorities and arrange onward travel for passengers.

At least six ships from four cruise companies are currently holding position in Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. The disruption follows recent military escalation in the region and subsequent precautionary measures affecting both aviation and shipping corridors.

MSC Euribia has cancelled its March 1st sailing from Doha and remains alongside at Port Rashid in Dubai.

In a statement to guests, MSC Cruises said: “Due to the current situation and the airspace closure in the Middle East region, we are currently monitoring and reviewing all of our operations in the region. Our focus is the safety and security of our guests and crew. Therefore, MSC Euribia cruise sailing from Doha today, 1st of March, is cancelled and the ship will remain in the port of Dubai.”

A further update confirmed the vessel is remaining in Dubai in line with regional guidance. “At this time, the situation on board is calm, and our guests and crew are comfortable and well looked after. We continue to provide a high-quality service to all guests,” said a spokesperson for MSC Cruises.

Airspace closures across parts of the Gulf have made flight operations to and from Doha and other regional hubs temporarily unavailable, complicating embarkation and disembarkation logistics for fly-cruise passengers. Cruise lines are working to secure alternative arrangements as aviation schedules are gradually reviewed.

Mein Schiff 5, operated by TUI Cruises, remains docked in Doha after completing a recent sailing. Thousands of passengers due to disembark are currently remaining on board while return travel options are coordinated. “We continue to monitor the developments in the Middle East very closely and are in close contact with the relevant authorities and security experts. We are continuously evaluating the situation and always make decisions based on current official recommendations,” said a spokesperson for TUI Cruises.

Mein Schiff 4 is alongside in Abu Dhabi. In Doha, Celestyal Journey remains in port, with guests permitted either to stay on board or disembark locally. Celestyal Discovery and Aroya are both holding position in Dubai.

“We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East in coordination with the relevant authorities. Both ships will remain in ports while the situation is assessed,” said a spokesperson for Celestyal.

Regional authorities in the UAE have confirmed that defensive measures remain active and that ports and maritime infrastructure are operating under enhanced security protocols.

While shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed amid advisories, there have been no reports of direct damage to cruise vessels in UAE waters. Government coordination across aviation, port, and civil defence agencies has ensured ships remain safely berthed and passengers accommodated.

Cruise operators are now reviewing upcoming itineraries on a sailing-by-sailing basis. With vessels safely in port and contingency plans activated, the immediate focus remains on passenger welfare and orderly travel arrangements once airspace restrictions ease.

Industry analysts note that while the situation introduces operational uncertainty, cruise lines are experienced in contingency planning and have historically adjusted deployments quickly in response to regional developments. For now, Gulf sailings remain on hold as authorities and operators assess conditions day by day.