Tag Archives: Doha

Celestyal has expanded the shore excursion programme for its upcoming new-for-2025 ‘Iconic Arabia’ itineraries on its second ship to visit the region, Celestyal Discovery. New tours include experiences in Ras Al Khaimah – as the cruise line makes it maiden visit to the port – and additional options in Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. The 1360-guest Celestyal Discovery will officially launch the line’s new three-, four- and seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises from 12 December 2025, sailing roundtrip from her winter homeport in Abu Dhabi. Ports of call include maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, in addition to Doha, Qatar; Khasab, Oman; Dubai, UAE; and Sir Bani Yas Island. Prices for three nights start from $367.44; four nights from $433.26pp; and from $749.32pp for the seven-night itinerary. Fares include all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities. The shore excursion programme has a range of half-day, full-day and two-day options. It also offers ‘Authentic Encounters’, which provide experiences with local people and attractions, and smaller group sizes. Highlights include: • ‘Journey to the Soul of Ras Al Khaimah’: A guided tour through the diverse landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, starting with a scenic drive through desert dunes, followed by a visit to the royal camel racing stables, an Emirati date farm and a mountain village. Full-day tour from ($260pp ( • ‘Ras Al Khaimah and Suwaidi Pearls Farm, Authentic Encounter’: Starting with a tour of the House of Pearls by Suwaidi Pearls, including a journey on a traditional pearl fishing boat, and visiting Dhayah Fort and Ras Al Khaimah’s Old Town. Full-day tour from)$123pp ( • ‘Dubai from its Eye’: Starting with a scenic drive to Zabeel Palace, the residence …

Hamad International Airport (HIA) marked the inaugural China Southern Airlines flight CZ8059 from Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), a milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Qatar and China. China Southern Airlines will operate the Doha–Beijing service three times weekly, providing direct access for passengers and cargo across two key international hubs. This development enhances Qatar’s position as a global aviation hub and offers new opportunities for travel trade partners, including tour operators, corporate travel planners, and freight forwarders, to design packages, facilitate international business travel, and streamline logistics. The route supports growth in tourism and commercial exchanges, enabling increased passenger flow between the Middle East and Asia. With the addition of this service, Hamad International Airport continues to expand its network, strengthening Qatar’s role as a gateway for international connectivity and fostering broader economic and cultural ties. The event featured a traditional water salute, ribbon-cutting, and formal welcomes, highlighting the strategic importance of the new route for trade, tourism, and business between the two nations. Senior representatives from China Southern Airlines and HIA attended the ceremony, reinforcing the collaborative effort behind this expansion.