Connections Cruise Arabia

Leading the cruise industry in the Gulf and beyond

Connections Cruise Arabia is the definitive event for the global cruise industry in the Gulf, positioning the region as a prominent hub for both inbound and outbound cruise development.

Launching in March 2026, the exclusive event will welcome 300 senior travel and cruise industry leaders – including a pre-qualified network of influential regional buyers – for two days of strategic meetings, thought leadership and collaboration.

With the global cruise market forecast to reach over 35 million passengers in 2026 and the Gulf positioned as one of the world’s fastest-growing travel regions, there has never been a better time to come together and shape the future of cruise tourism here.

Join us to be part of the movement driving the cruise industry’s next chapter in one of the world's fastest-growing tourism regions.

Shape the Future of Cruise in the Gulf

Connections Cruise Arabia offers an unparalleled opportunity to be part of the region’s growing cruise success story.

By attending, you will:

  • Forge powerful connections: Meet senior decision-makers from cruise lines, ports, tourism boards, DMCs, tour operators and key suppliers.

  • Exclusive B2B engagement: Cruise Lines and hand-selected buyers will participate in pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, driving high-value business discussions and strategic partnerships.

  • Discover new opportunities: Explore inbound and outbound cruise potential across the Gulf's emerging and established markets.

  • Gain cutting-edge insights: Hear from leading experts on the trends, challenges and innovations shaping the future of cruise globally and in the Gulf.

  • Showcase your brand: Position your organisation at the forefront of regional cruise development and connect with high-value partners and stakeholders.

  • Drive meaningful growth: Collaborate on the issues that matter most – from infrastructure and investment to sustainability, safety and customer experience.

The Ultimate Cruise Hub

1.3 million+

Cruise passengers visiting Gulf ports annually

$1 billion+

Investment in Gulf cruise and tourism infrastructure

35 million+

Global cruise passengers forecast by 2026

$45 billion+

Value of the global cruise industry by 2029

The Programme

Designed to drive real results, the programme will combine exclusive pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, inspirational content sessions, and unforgettable networking experiences, all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most exciting regions for cruise growth.

What to expect:

  • High-impact one-to-one meetings between Cruise Lines and top buyers, unlocking new partnerships and driving future cruise itineraries.

  • Visionary keynote panels with industry leaders shaping the future of cruise, tourism and investment across the Gulf.

  • Expert workshops tackling the region’s biggest opportunities – from infrastructure expansion to sustainability, safety and regional collaboration.

  • New-to-cruise training sessions to empower agents and trade partners with the tools to drive future sales and success.

  • Dynamic showcase sessions revealing the latest port developments, new destinations and must-see itineraries.

  • Unmissable networking receptions designed to spark collaboration, celebrate innovation and create lasting global partnerships.

At Connections Cruise Arabia, every session is crafted to move the Gulf’s cruise industry forward – faster, smarter and together.