Cruise Saudi, a Public Investment Fund company established in 2021, is marking five years of redefining cruise tourism in the Kingdom – turning vision into reality and positioning Saudi Arabia as one of the world’s most exciting emerging cruise destinations.
Cruise Saudi connects the world’s leading cruise lines to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coasts, delivering an integrated ecosystem spanning port infrastructure, cruise operations, destination development, and curated shore experiences.
In its five-year journey, Cruise Saudi has developed a growing network of cruise gateways, welcoming passengers from a range of nationalities and hosting cruise ships in collaboration with international cruise lines, alongside the launch of its own homegrown brand, Aroya Cruises, and its investment in Aman-at-Sea. Through this rapid progress, Cruise Saudi is firmly establishing Saudi Arabia as a new hub for regional and international cruise itineraries, supporting the ambitions of Vision 2030.
The gateway to Saudi Arabia’s coasts
At the heart of Cruise Saudi’s success is its focus on developing a full-suite cruise ecosystem in Saudi that opens the Kingdom to the world as a new frontier for cruise travel, positioning Saudi’s ports as gateways to discovery.
From UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient archaeological landscapes to pristine Red Sea islands, desert adventures, mountain expeditions, cultural festivals, and culinary discoveries, each experience is crafted to reveal Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and dynamic modern identity. Whether exploring AlUla’s timeless landscapes or discovering coastal traditions in Yanbu, guests experience authentic connections with local communities while contributing to sustainable tourism growth.
Launching a new Arabian cruise experience
A defining milestone in Cruise Saudi’s journey was the launch of Aroya Cruises in 2024 – the first Arabian cruise line, created to deliver a truly “Remarkably Arabian” experience inspired by Saudi culture and hospitality.
Following successful seasons in the Red Sea and Mediterranean, the AROYA programme features themed voyages celebrating regional culture, seasonal moments, and lifestyle experiences tailored to regional and international guests alike.
“In our five-year journey, Cruise Saudi has moved from ambition to delivery – transforming ports into gateways and cruise calls into meaningful destination experiences” said Taha Nazer, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Cruise Saudi. He added, “Our next chapter is about elevating quality even further: curating journeys that reflect Saudi Arabia’s culture, support local communities, and set new benchmarks for wellbeing and innovation at sea.”
Charting the next chapter
Looking ahead, Cruise Saudi is focused on creating a resilient, globally competitive cruise ecosystem as a catalyst for tourism diversification and sustainable development. Continuing to expand its footprint through new cruise gateways and strategic partnerships, unlocking new destinations and experiences across both the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, while strengthening collaboration with global cruise lines and tourism partners.
Cruise Saudi is also advancing Aman-at-Sea, an ultra-luxury yacht developed in partnership with Aman Group scheduled to launch in 2027, set to redefine a new standard of luxury at sea.
