By January 20, 2025, Qatar’s cruise tourism sector witnessed a remarkable surge, welcoming an impressive 53 cruise ships to its shores. These vessels collectively brought 191,944 passengers, including 20,951 turnaround travelers who embarked on their journeys from Doha.

Germany emerged as the leading source market, contributing 30.2% of total arrivals, followed by Russia at 10.8% and Italy at 9.2%. The top ten nationalities accounted for 69.2% of the total passenger count, highlighting Qatar’s growing appeal as a cruise destination among international travelers.

This season also marked the maiden arrival of four prominent cruise ships—Resorts World One, MSC Euribia, Celestyal Journey, and Costa Smeralda—each making their inaugural visit to Doha. Looking ahead, Norwegian Sky is set to dock on April 12, 2025, further boosting Qatar’s cruise activity. Costa Smeralda, recognized as the eighth-largest cruise ship in the world, has scheduled ten calls this season, bringing an estimated 82,000 passengers alone.

Qatar’s cruise industry continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s tourism landscape, aligning with the country’s broader strategy to establish itself as a premier global travel hub. Doha Port’s prime location within the city enables visitors to make the most of their short stays, with easy access to renowned landmarks such as the National Museum of Qatar and Souq Waqif. Enhancing this experience further, the Grand Cruise Terminal—featuring a blend of traditional Arabian architecture and cutting-edge amenities—reflects Qatar’s dedication to offering world-class hospitality to cruise passengers.

As Qatar expands its tourism portfolio, the cruise sector stands as a vital contributor to its vision of becoming a top-tier international destination. With a growing number of ships making Doha a key stop, the nation is set to solidify its position as a must-visit location for cruise enthusiasts worldwide.

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