Cruise to Middle East

Person walking up dune at sunset with Burj Khalifa in the background

Middle East Cruises: Your guide to cruising this interesting region

  • Two people sitting at restaurant along the water
  • City shot at dusk with Burj Khalifa
  • Lady admiring statues carved out of sand

Anchor down our most popular cruise deals

See all
  • Cruise sale - save up to 75%* on 2nd guest | hurry, ends 1 Feb
  • Travel Tuesday - exclusive cruise sale | 8-night South Pacific cruise - $75* onboard credit per stateroom | from $929* per person - ends midnight
  • cruise deals up to $400 bonus credit and save up to $2500 on europe cruises
  • New Zealand cruise | onboard credit* - from $2,539* per person | T&Cs apply. Price is per person based on twin share.
  • Great Barrier Reef Cruise | sail from $147* per day - from $1,029* per person | *T&Cs apply. Price is per person, based on twin share.
  • Sydney to Auckland Luxury cruise - save 10%* | from $14,940* per person | *T&Cs apply. Price is per person, based on twin share
  • Queensland Cruise | save up to 60%* off second guest - from $1395* per person | *T&Cs apply. Price is per person based on twin share.
  • South Pacific Cruise | exclusive rate - from $1,149* per person | *T&Cs apply. Price is per person based on twin share.
  • NCL Mediterranean Cruise | includes $100* onboard credit. Italy, France & Spain - from $2,299* per person | *T&Cs apply. Price is per person, based on twin share
  • Weekend like you mean it | 3-night sailings from $549* | Two people cheering on a yellow water slide on a cruise ship
  • Cruise Sale Week - 50%* off on deposits & bonus credit* | Princess | *T&CS apply. Price is subject to change.
  • Celebrity New Zealand cruise | save up to 75%* on 2nd guest. From $2,735* per person | *T&CS apply. Price is per person, based on twin share
  • carnival great barrier reef cruise
  • Carnival cruise deals. Book 2027 & 2027 sailings now
  • avalon danube fly stay and river cruise

Frequently asked questions

Empty your camera roll and prepare to snap selfies in destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, and historical sites in Egypt, Jordan, and Israel – all of which are popular inclusions in a Middle Eastern cruise itinerary.


Enjoy immaculate cruising vibes in the Middle East between November and March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploration.


Onshore activities may include desert safaris, visits to ancient archaeological sites, snorkeling in the Red Sea, and city tours through ancient walls and winding souks. Onboard, your cruise ship is likely decked out with plenty of spas, restaurants, bars and activities to keep you more than entertained.


Most cruises include meals onboard, with menus featuring a range of Middle Eastern and Western cuisine. Bring some local currency to so you can easily sample the local delights during shore excursions.


While wildlife is sparse in urban areas (they don’t love desert landscapes and skyscrapers as much as one would think), you may encounter marine life in the Red Sea and local fauna during desert excursions.


Middle East cruises typically range from 7 to 14 days, meaning you’ve got plenty of time to explore the region's diverse cultures and landscapes (and eat all of the epic food).


Absolutely! Pretty much every Middle Eastern cruise offers excursions to explore local markets, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Perhaps the better question is – will there be enough time to explore all of the cultural experiences the Middle East has to offer?


Pack lightweight, modest clothing for the warm climate, along with sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes for walking. Ensure you pack modest clothing so you can cover up and respect local culture when exploring religious sites and ancient wonders.


If the Middle East knows anything, it’s luxury, and the cruises are no exception. If luxury is what you’re after, chat with your Flight Centre cruising expert to find a high-end ship that meets your needs. Offering everything from high-end amenities to exclusive regional experiences, we have a feeling you won’t be disappointed.


Major departure cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are well-connected by international flights and ground transfers, making embarkation a breeze.