MSC Cruises has announced that the naming ceremony for its newest flagship, MSC Virtuosa, will take place in Dubai on 27 November at Mina Rashid (Port Rashid).
The ship first set sail in late May for a series of UK cruises.
MSC said the event will “take place in compliance with all public health and safety protocols established by the Dubai government”.
The occasion will also be a part of the celebrations surrounding the golden jubilee of the UAE and will be staged as Dubai welcomes the world to Expo 2020.
Following the event, MSC Virtuosa will depart for its maiden Gulf voyage on 28 November with guests on board from Dubai as the first of a series seven-night cruises with visits to the ports of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Dammam in Saudi Arabia and Doha, with additional embarkations at Abu Dhabi and Doha.

MSC Cruises executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago said: “We are incredibly proud and honoured to hold the naming ceremony for our cherished flagship and masterpiece MSC Virtuosa in one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations – Dubai.
“This event assumes more significance due to the fact that it is part of the line-up of glorious events and activities taking place for the ‘Year of the 50th’ and coincides with the region’s first World Expo, as well as truly celebrating Dubai as one of the favoured destinations for travellers from all over the world.
“I am so glad that cruising has played and will continue to play an important part in this achievement. I also want to thank Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, DP World and Emirates Airline for their partnership and support in making this event happen.”
Emirates Airline and Group chairman and chief executive Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum added: “Dubai has charted a strong and steady course to become a global tourism destination and preferred regional cruising gateway.
“The milestone naming ceremony and maiden voyage of MSC Virtuosa from Dubai underscores the trust and confidence that the city has earned as a great partner for the cruise industry.”