Emirates has strengthened its strategic partnership with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) through the extension of its prestigious Diamond Elite executive partnership. With CLIA representing more than 90% of the global ocean cruise fleet, including more than 55 cruise lines, this partnership offers Emirates the opportunity to deepen its engagement with key cruise industry leaders and enhance its visibility in key cruise markets. The collaboration also aligns with the airline’s vision to enhance Dubai’s status as a premier global cruise hub while capitalizing on the sector’s robust growth trajectory.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “The extension of our Diamond Elite Partnership with CLIA comes at the right time for Emirates. The cruise industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with robust demand spanning diverse traveller segments, and a healthy performance outlook. We will strategically tap into the growth opportunity that the industry presents, especially across CLIA’s expansive business community of executive partners, travel trade members and advisors to boost cruise passenger arrivals through our superior network and premium product proposition.
He added: “Our CLIA executive partnership also reinforces Dubai’s emergence as one of the world’s best cruise destinations. Through collaborative efforts with our partners, Dubai today benefits from an integrated air-land-sea proposition, anchored by world-class maritime infrastructure, iconic tourist attractions, and exceptional air connectivity, and we remain committed to grow its appeal to an expanding base of cruise travellers.”
“Emirates is a valued partner to the cruise industry, and their ongoing engagement as a CLIA executive partner demonstrates a strong commitment to furthering industry relationships and supporting CLIA’s important advocacy work on behalf of our members,” said Karyn Gruenberg, CLIA’s Managing Director of Enterprise Development and Senior Vice President of Membership. “In 2025, 37.1 million passengers are forecast to sail globally, with Dubai growing as a cruise destination and homeport. Through their CLIA executive partnership, Emirates is well-poised to continue collaborating with cruise decision-makers to support this emerging market.”
As a CLIA Diamond Elite Executive Partner, Emirates will have privileged access to cruise industry leadership through exclusive events, while securing premier sponsorship opportunities at key industry gatherings. The elevated partnership will also enhance Emirates’ visibility in key cruise markets, and provides access to vital industry research and insights, including passenger demographics and emerging trends. The airline will also be able to promote its fly-cruise packages and crew movement solutions, complemented by brand positioning across CLIA’s digital platforms.
Last year, Emirates transported nearly 187,000 cruise passengers to Dubai. Dubai stands as the Middle East’s largest port of embarkation and the city’s dual ports welcomed four ships in 2024. Both Port Rashid and Dubai Harbour offer an array of passenger amenities, including expedited customs clearance, streamlined visa processing, and extensive duty-free retail options. Visitors benefit from Emirates’ 16 remote check-in facilities at Port Rashid as well as convenient city access through complimentary shuttle services. The Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal at Port Rashid —the world’s largest single covered cruise facility— is capable of processing 14,000 passengers daily.
