12:00 Delegate arrival

12:30 Networking Lunch

14:00 Opening Keynote

14:15 Panel: Global Cruising & Why a Middle East Hub Makes Sense

This session looks at how Middle East ports and destinations can attract more cruise lines, itinerary planners and passengers, and crucially, how to get travellers to stay longer than just a night before or after their cruise. We’ll hear practical examples from other parts of the world, as well as what’s already working here in the region, to explore why a Middle East cruise hub makes sense now more than ever.

15:15 Coffee Break

15:30 Panel: Inspiring Middle East Markets

This session explores how we can grow the number of cruise sellers in the GCC and wider Middle East, whether by recruiting new talent or upskilling existing general agents to become cruise specialists. We’ll also look at how to better engage the region’s high-spending, multicultural market and shift mindsets so cruise holidays sit alongside luxury hotels and private villas as a preferred option.

16:30 Official Cruise Insight Report Launch

16:45 Closing Remarks & Networking Drinks

18:00 Departures