Aroya Cruises monitors Gulf operations as ship remains in Dubai amid US-Iran conflict

Aroya Cruises is continuing to assess operating conditions in the Arabian Gulf after suspending its scheduled itinerary and remains alongside in Dubai while authorities and operators monitor the evolving regional situation.

The Saudi-based cruise line confirmed that its ship Aroya will stay docked in Dubai for the time being following coordination with maritime and national authorities. The vessel had launched its inaugural Gulf season only days earlier and was due to operate regional itineraries through early May.

“The safety, security and comfort of our guests and crew continue to be our highest priority,” said Aroya Cruises.

“Due to ongoing regional operational considerations and following close coordination with the relevant maritime and national authorities, we will remain in Dubai while operational conditions continue to be monitored until further notice,” the company added.

The ship, which carries approximately 3,400 passengers, suspended its scheduled voyage last weekend. The itinerary had included calls in Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates as part of a seven-night cruise operating from Dubai.

Crew onboard are currently assisting passengers with arrangements for onward travel while the ship remains alongside.

“We regret the disruption to our guests’ travel plans and invite them to contact our dedicated team for further information,” said Aroya Cruises.

According to the company, onboard teams are providing support to guests to help facilitate travel planning and logistics while the vessel remains in port.

Aroya Cruises had only recently begun its first Arabian Gulf season after introducing the ship to the regional market. The programme included sailings linking ports in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

The current voyage was scheduled to include stops in Khasab and Muscat in Oman, as well as Abu Dhabi, Doha and Sir Bani Yas Island before returning to Dubai.

The pause in operations comes as several cruise operators adjust their programmes in the Gulf while monitoring the regional situation and coordinating with authorities.

Aroya Cruises was among four brands operating ships in the region when itineraries began to be suspended in late February.

Since then, some operators have decided to conclude their winter seasons early, while others have kept vessels alongside while awaiting further operational guidance.

Celestyal Cruises and MSC Cruises have confirmed the early end of their Arabian Gulf programmes, while TUI Cruises has halted sailings aboard Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5.

As of this week, several cruise vessels remain docked in regional ports. In addition to Aroya, ships including MSC Euribia, Celestyal Discovery, Celestyal Journey, Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5 are currently alongside in ports across the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

Cruise lines operating in the region have emphasised that passenger wellbeing remains the primary consideration while travel arrangements are coordinated and operating conditions continue to be assessed.

Operators indicated that further updates will be issued as additional information becomes available and as authorities provide guidance on future sailings.