MSC Cruises formally canceled its remaining Middle East winter 2026-2027 schedule because of the ongoing conflict in the Arabian Gulf and resulting disruptions affecting MSC Euribia ship's departures from homeports Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.
The vessel is currently docked in Dubai, with no clearance granted for onward passage.
In its latest communication, MSC indicated that the safety of passengers and crew remains paramount and that the ship will remain in port until conditions permit otherwise.
With commercial flight services operating at reduced capacity across the Persian Gulf, arrangements for guests’ return travel are being coordinated with airline partners. These efforts have been affected by widespread disruption and a substantial backlog of travellers awaiting repatriation, resulting in a gradual organisation of outbound flights.
MSC has stated that it is maintaining close liaison with carriers to facilitate an orderly and secure return home for those on board.
Parallel to these efforts, contact is being sustained with embassies and foreign ministries to provide information concerning nationals embarked and to monitor any government-led repatriation initiatives that may be announced.
Conditions aboard the vessel are reported to be stable. Passengers retain access to the ship’s public rooms, dining saloons, entertainment venues and hotel services, and routine operations continue within the constraints imposed by the prolonged stay. The line has conveyed that standards of care and accommodation are being upheld for both guests and crew during the delay.
For the ship’s complement, the interruption entails an extended period alongside in Dubai, with the attendant adjustments to hotel and technical operations that such circumstances require. Service routines continue while shore-side authorities and company officials work through the complexities of travel logistics.
The curtailment of the season removes the final three Middle East departures from the schedule. Present plans indicate that MSC Euribia will reposition northward in April on a crossing without passengers, entering service in Northern Europe for the summer deployment before transferring to Mediterranean itineraries in October. Until such time, operational focus remains directed toward the safe return of guests and the sustained support of crew while the vessel’s programme in the region stands suspended.