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What To Know
- The forum is positioned to serve as a meeting point for industry leaders seeking dialogue on inbound and outbound cruise travel, regional coordination, and long-term cruise development strategies tied to the Gulf’s evolving tourism landscape.
- The senior-level cruise forum will take place from 28 to 29 September 2026, expanding into a two-day industry gathering hosted once again in the UAE’s cruise and tourism capital.
- Connections Cruise Arabia officially confirmed its return to Dubai in 2026, locking in dates and plans after a headline-making first edition in 2025.
Connections Cruise Arabia confirms expanded Dubai forum for September 2026
Connections Cruise Arabia officially confirmed its return to Dubai in 2026, locking in dates and plans after a headline-making first edition in 2025. The senior-level cruise forum will take place from 28 to 29 September 2026, expanding into a two-day industry gathering hosted once again in the UAE’s cruise and tourism capital. The announcement follows strong industry attendance and engagement during the inaugural event, which placed regional cruise development firmly in the global conversation. With the Gulf’s cruise sector drawing sustained attention from international operators and travel leaders, the Dubai return already carries significant industry focus.
Connections Cruise Arabia Expands for 2026
First launched in September 2025, Connections Cruise Arabia debuted as the Gulf’s first dedicated senior-level cruise forum. The initial edition welcomed senior executives from cruise lines, travel agencies, ports, and government bodies for a leadership summit focused on regional cruise growth. That one-day event set the foundation for deeper dialogue and industry coordination, prompting organisers to expand the format for its second edition.
The 2026 forum will run across two full days and is set to welcome a substantially larger group of cruise decision-makers from international markets. Organisers confirmed that attendance will extend well beyond the inaugural year, reflecting rising interest in the Middle East cruise market and its long-term outlook.
What the Dubai Event Will Include
Returning to Dubai, the 2026 edition will introduce an expanded programme designed for cruise leaders and travel trade professionals. The agenda includes strategic content sessions focused on market development, a dedicated exhibition zone, workshops aimed at new-to-cruise sellers, and a structured buyer programme. Curated networking experiences will also form a central part of the event schedule, offering direct interaction between cruise lines, ports, agencies, and destination partners.
The inaugural edition was hosted onboard the historic QE2, providing a maritime setting that reinforced the forum’s cruise-first identity. While venue details for 2026 have yet to be confirmed, organisers stated that Dubai will again serve as the host city, reinforcing its growing role within the regional cruise narrative.
Why the Timing Matters for the Gulf
Connections Cruise Arabia 2026 arrives as the Gulf continues to attract attention as a cruise growth region. Industry momentum has been supported by coordinated efforts through the Cruise Arabia Alliance, alongside tourism and infrastructure investments linked to Vision 2030 initiatives throughout the GCC. Dubai’s established cruise terminals, expanding itineraries, and regional cooperation have placed the Middle East firmly on the radar for cruise planning and deployment discussions.
The forum is positioned to serve as a meeting point for industry leaders seeking dialogue on inbound and outbound cruise travel, regional coordination, and long-term cruise development strategies tied to the Gulf’s evolving tourism landscape.
With its return confirmed, Connections Cruise Arabia 2026 sets the stage for a larger, longer, and more comprehensive industry gathering in Dubai. The two-day format, expanded programme, and broader international participation underline the forum’s growing relevance within the global cruise calendar. Further details regarding sponsorship, participation, and programme specifics will be announced during 2026, as industry attention continues to focus on Dubai’s role within the next phase of cruise sector growth.
