This study examines the growth and development of the cruise industry in
the Arabian Gulf in light of global cruise tourism trends. In the last decade, Arabian
Gulf countries have actively promoted diversification of their economies and tourism
was pinpointed as an important area for economic growth. Within the tourism
industry, cruise tourism specifically has emerged as a new venue offering significant
economic opportunities. By using various published and unpublished sources, this
study traces the emergence of cruise tourism in the Arabian Gulf region. It analyzes
the growth of this sector of tourism by examining strategies implemented by
particular countries and joint regional cooperation efforts. Ultimately, it offers
recommendations for future continued development of the sector.