Resorts World Cruises: Voyage across Arabian Gulf (Part 1)

This is Part 1 of my review of Resorts World Cruises' packages in the Arabian Gulf. Click Part 2 and Part 3 for the rest of the review.

Sailing across the Arabian Gulf, the Resorts World Cruises ship can accommodate up to 1,800 passengers.

A FEW years ago, my mother and I saw a documentary about cruise ships.

It quickly became our favourite TV show, drawing us in front of the screen once a week to satisfy our curiosity.

To me, cruise ships seemed like a marvel — part resort and part shopping centre, floating out at sea.

It's the type of holiday only the wealthy could afford, I often thought, wistfully hoping that one day I too, could go on such a trip.

So imagine my delight when my editor texted me one afternoon asking if I would like to go on the Resorts World Cruises (RWC) maiden voyage across the Arabian Gulf.

“Absolutely, I would love to go,” I replied within seconds, barely able to contain my excitement.

The trip was special, because it combined two itineraries to create a longer journey.

It comprised a two-night trip from Dubai to Sir Bani Yas Island and a three-night journey also from Dubai to Khasab and Muscat in Oman.

Upon reaching these destinations, passengers could leave the ship temporarily to visit local attractions.

I dive into these excursions in Part 2 and Part 3.

Me posing by the ship prior to checking in.

Room with a view

Arriving at Port Rashid in Dubai to board the cruise, my first question was which room I’d been assigned. 

The check-in process was seamless, and soon I was headed to my stateroom on Deck 11. 

A large glass door separating the room from the balcony offered a clear view of the scenery outside. 

The room featured a double bed and a sofa bed, ideal for those travelling with friends or family.

Though modestly sized, it can sleep up to four people. 

The balcony stateroom on Deck 11 can sleep four people.

The bathroom was compact yet well-equipped, with essentials like a hot shower and a dressing area.

Word of advice: be sure to remember the location of your room — whether it’s at the front, middle or back of the ship. 

RWC President Michael Goh shared this tip with me:

“Look at the fish patterns on the carpet (in the corridor). They swim forward, so the head points to the front of the ship and the tail to the back.”

Decked with fun times

The ship has 13 decks and can accommodate up to 1,800 passengers at a time. 

Most passenger activities take place on Deck 7 and above, as the lower decks are mostly reserved for the crew. 

Deck 7 houses the lobby, a popular spot for passengers to hang out during free time. 

There’s a cafe here selling baked goods, pastries and drinks, with prices ranging from USD3 to USD12. 

Passengers hanging out at the lobby.

This deck also hosts several restaurants, a gift shop and an arcade room. 

Outside, the boardwalk offers space for jogging or casual strolls.

Deck 8 has limited amenities, with just two restaurants and The Boutiques, which sells branded fashion items. 

Decks 9, 10, and 11 are primarily staterooms. 

Deck 12, with both indoor and outdoor sections, is perhaps the liveliest area on the ship.

Its main attraction is the pool area, where popular outdoor activities like foam and rain parties are held.

A view of the pool from the overhead section on Deck 13.

Passengers can also enjoy a barbecue dinner here at night.

This deck also features The Lido, a complimentary restaurant popular with passengers throughout the day. 

It also offers a late-night supper session from midnight to 2am.

An overhead section on Deck 13 overlooks the pool on Deck 12 and features a bar. 

My favourite activity was the Silent Disco, held at the helipad on the uppermost deck. 

Although I love dancing, I’d never been to a disco before, which meant my talent was mostly confined to the bedroom. 

So it was refreshing to be able to let loose and dance away my worries — even if only temporarily!

Be sure to check out the barbecue party on Deck 12.

The Lido opens until 2am daily, serving various types of cuisines.

Basking in the warm morning rays on Deck 13, me!

Shipful of theatrics

Zodiac Theatre features a variety of performances to keep passengers entertained.

I’ve saved my favourite activity for last. 

As a theatre enthusiast, I particularly loved the Zodiac Theatre.

It is accessible from Deck 7 and has a second entrance on Deck 8. 

The theatre features a variety of shows, with a new performance each night to keep things fresh. 

One standout was Trustfall, which among others, featured a section using my favourite singer Sarah Brightman’s song Only An Ocean Away.

That was a highlight that earned my immediate applause.

Me with the the Crew Talent Show performers. Guess which of them cleaned my room earlier?

I also highly recommend the Crew Talent Show, which showcased crew members from other parts of the ship. 

The fact that they’re not professional performers added to the charm as their passiona and sincerity shone though.

I would never forget the crew member who had cleaned up my room who went on stage and began singing Journey’s Don’t Stop Believing.

That brought me back to my days of binge-watching Glee.

My fellow journalist Siew Roo summed up the Crew Talent Show perfectly:

“They were a bit rough around the edges, but that’s what makes it good, because they feel relatable.”

List of the performances and their showtimes.

I am reachable at +6017-628 9812 (WhatsApp) and faridfreddy92@gmail.com (email).