DUBAI: Sailing through the Arabian Gulf, Resorts World Cruises (RWC) launched its inaugural week-long voyage aboard the Resorts World One, departing from Dubai’s Port Rashid Cruise Terminal. This journey, which began a month ago, offered a unique opportunity for passengers to explore beautiful destinations across the region. The cruise included four local media representatives, regional media from Singapore, Thailand, China, and the Philippines, as well as travel agents. The launch ceremony, held on October 31, was attended by RWC president Michael Goh and nearly 300 guests on the 1,800-passenger vessel.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ship, equipped with 926 staterooms, offered a range of accommodations, from interior staterooms to luxurious suites known as ‘The Palace’. The cruise itinerary covered approximately 6,465 kilometers, visiting notable sites such as Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi and the coastal towns of Khasab and Muscat in Oman. The timing of the cruise coincided with the onset of the
winter season, providing pleasant weather with temperatures averaging 31°C during the day and 19°C at night, ideal for exploring the outdoor attractions.
The journey commenced with a visit to Dubai, where guests marveled at the Burj Khalifa fountain show and enjoyed a traditional Emirati experience at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. This included a welcoming session with Arabic coffee and dates, introducing guests to the local custom of ‘Sabbat Al-Heshma’, a tradition highlighting hospitality.
The cruise continued to Sir Bani Yas Island, a nature reserve established by the United Arab Emirates’ founding father Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan. The island is home to over 17,000 free-roaming animals, including zebras and gazelles. An optional jeep excursion offered a close encounter with the island’s wildlife, while those who opted out enjoyed the ship’s amenities.
In Oman, the cruise visited Khasab, known as the ‘Norway of Arabia’, where guests explored Khasab Fort and embarked on a dhow cruise
to observe dolphins. The following day in Muscat, travelers visited the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the bustling Muttrah Souq, experiencing Omani culture and traditions, including the significance of frankincense.
The journey concluded with a 20-hour return to Dubai, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the ship’s offerings. For additional information on this cruise, interested parties can visit www.rwcruises.com or contact [email protected].