Dubai's cruise tourism sector continues its remarkable expansion, with Emirates Airline reinforcing its partnerships with Costa Cruises and TUI Cruises. This strategic collaboration promises to enhance passenger experiences and elevate Dubai's status as a leading global cruise destination.
At the ITB Berlin event, Emirates and Costa Cruises revealed a renewed partnership agreement that will last through 2027. Having worked together for over two decades, the airlines aim to integrate air, land, and sea travel to deliver a seamless, exceptional experience for cruise passengers.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, remarked, "Costa Cruises’ commitment to Dubai highlights our shared vision of reinforcing the emirate as a premier winter cruising hub." He added, "For Emirates, the cruise traveller segment represents a substantial growth opportunity, offering significant benefits for Dubai’s economy."
This renewed partnership will involve joint marketing campaigns, optimized flight schedules with dedicated ‘cruise blocks’ to meet passenger demand, and enhanced data sharing for improved service. Furthermore, the collaboration will ensure smoother check-ins at Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal, and enhanced transport solutions between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and the terminal.
Costa Cruises, a key player in Dubai's cruise tourism since 2006, will deploy its latest flagship, Costa Toscana, during the 2025/2026 winter season. With this continued partnership, Emirates and Costa Cruises are set to further boost Dubai’s appeal to international cruise tourists.
In addition to Costa Cruises, Emirates has renewed its partnership with TUI Cruises, further solidifying its position in the cruise tourism market. Announced at ITB Berlin, the collaboration aligns with TUI Cruises' expansion in Dubai, where a second vessel will homeport for the 2025-2026 season. Kazim commented, "This collaboration will enhance passenger arrivals in Dubai and across our network, ensuring exceptional maritime experiences for all."
As part of the TUI Cruises partnership, the focus will be on improving connectivity and operational efficiency, with joint marketing efforts, flight schedule coordination, and streamlined ground transportation between Dubai International Airport and Port Rashid Cruise Terminal. This partnership will also extend beyond Dubai, with the aim to explore new opportunities in the Far East, particularly with TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 6, which offers a 14-day itinerary from Singapore to several key destinations.
Dubai’s rapid growth in cruise tourism is underpinned by the city's integrated aviation and tourism infrastructure, including expedited customs and visa processing, duty-free services, and complimentary city shuttles. Emirates provides 16 remote check-in counters at Port Rashid, allowing passengers to check their luggage and receive boarding passes up to four hours before their flight, giving them ample time to explore the city.
For the upcoming 2025-2026 cruise season, TUI Cruises will deploy two vessels, each with a capacity of over 2,500 passengers, to Port Rashid. Passengers will have the option to select from two itineraries, both departing from and arriving in Dubai, with stops in Abu Dhabi, Oman, and Qatar.
With Emirates, Costa Cruises, and TUI Cruises working together, Dubai's cruise tourism sector is set for a bright future, attracting more visitors and contributing to the city's economic growth.
