Qatar is successfully developing cruise tourism; its economy allows it to spend what is necessary to attract cruise ships.
The construction of a multi-million dollar passenger terminal, set to open a week before the start of the FIFA World Cup in November, is one of the company's major projects. The inauguration will coincide with the christening ceremony of MSC Cruises' newest and largest ship, the World Europa, which can accommodate 6,774 passengers.
In addition, the MSC Poesia and the MSC Opera will join the group, offering official accommodation for the World Cup (November 20 to December 18). Other ships, such as the privately chartered Emerald Azzurra and a couple of Ponant vessels, will also be in the area.
The cruise industry continues to grow in the small Gulf nation. Windstar will arrive next winter and Silversea in 2024-25.
Qatar's cruise terminal can handle two ships and 7,000 passengers at once, as it has an 800m pier.
