Cruise Saudi, a leading player in the maritime tourism sector, has launched its first cruise vessel, Aroya, at Jeddah Islamic Port, marking a significant step in advancing Saudi Arabia's maritime tourism ambitions.
The Aroya offers an impressive array of amenities across its 19 decks. With 1678 passenger staterooms, the ship can host 3362 passengers (double occupancy), providing dining experiences in 12 restaurants and 17 cafes that span global cuisines while incorporating elements of Saudi culture and heritage.
Entertainment options include a 1,018-seat theater, a dedicated children’s area, and extensive sports and wellness facilities, such as a walking track, basketball and football courts, and a water games area. The ship also includes prayer spaces and exclusive wellness hours for women, showcasing a design tailored to both comfort and cultural sensibilities.
The Aroya will operate across three distinct seasons:
- Red Sea Season: The initial season focuses on routes within the Red Sea, connecting Saudi Arabia with neighboring Egypt and Jordan. The maiden voyage in December will visit key cities such as Jeddah, Sharm El-Sheikh, Aqaba, and Petra, while domestic routes will include stops at Yanbu and the exclusive private island Jabal Al-Sabaya.
- Gulf Season: The second season will explore the Gulf region, departing from Dammam and visiting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, and Qatar.
- Mediterranean Season: The third season will operate from Istanbul during the summer, offering Mediterranean itineraries.
By 2035, Saudi Aroya Cruises plans to expand its fleet with 2 new ships, constructed entirely with Saudi expertise and resources. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals to strengthen its maritime capabilities and solidify its position in the global tourism market.
This ambitious project, spearheaded by Cruise Saudi, highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to becoming a leading destination for luxury maritime travel while preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.