The tensions across the Middle East have affected several major cruise lines, with several having to close for the remainder of the year. Conflict broke out on February 28 after the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran, which led to the country retaliating with missile strikes.

The ongoing war has had a major effect on global economies and industries, including fuel, food, and travel. In addition to the mass number of plane cancellations and delays, cruise lines have also had to cancel their voyages for the year, with some vessels even being stuck in the Middle East.

The United Nations’ International Maritime Organisation (IMO) told AFP that 15,000 cruise passengers had been stranded in the region after several ships were docked in ports.

Celetysal, an award-winning Greek cruise line, also confirmed that its ships remain in the Gulf, including Celestyal Discovery in Dubai and Celestyal Journey in Doha.

It has, however, confirmed that passengers had safely disembarked in Dubai, and in its latest update, said that it was working towards disembarking the last remaining guests on Celestyal Journey

The cruise line has also cancelled its Celestyal Discovery three-night trip on March 20, and four-night sailing on March 23, and is working on finalising operational arrangements for the ship’s repositioning to the Mediterranean ahead of the summer season.

It confirmed that passengers booked on the impacted voyages will be offered a full refund or future cruise credit.

MSC Cruises has also confirmed the cancellation of three of its voyages. While, AROYA Cruises has announced that the remainder of its Arabian Gulf winter season will no longer go ahead.

It also said that passengers aboard its ship were safely disembarked in Dubai on March 7 after the decision was taken “due to ongoing regional operational considerations and in coordination with the relevant maritime and national authorities”.

Renowned holiday operator TUI also announced cancellations of its trips. TUI Cruises has cancelled its Mein Schiff 4 trips from up to and including the start of the trip on March 23, 2026, and Mein Schiff 5, up to and including the start of the trip on March 12, 2026.