20 July 2026: Cruise Saudi is marking five years since its establishment in 2021, highlighting the development of cruise infrastructure, operations and destination experiences across Saudi Arabia, according to an official press release from the Public Investment Fund company.
During its first five years, Cruise Saudi has worked to establish an integrated cruise ecosystem covering port infrastructure, cruise operations, destination development and shore excursions. Its activities have also included introducing international cruise lines to destinations along Saudi Arabia’s coastline.
The company has developed a growing network of cruise gateways and worked with international cruise lines to receive ships and passengers from different nationalities. Its portfolio has expanded to include the homegrown AROYA Cruises brand and an investment in AMAN-at-Sea.
Cruise Saudi said these developments support Saudi Vision 2030 and the wider transformation of the Kingdom’s tourism sector.
Shore Experiences Connect Guests with Saudi Destinations
Cruise Saudi’s destination programme includes shore excursions designed around Saudi Arabia’s heritage, natural environments and contemporary identity.
The experiences cover UNESCO World Heritage sites, archaeological landscapes, Red Sea islands, desert activities, mountain expeditions, cultural festivals and local cuisine. Destinations identified in the programme include AlUla, known for its historic landscapes, and Yanbu, where guests can explore the area’s coastal traditions.
The excursions are also intended to connect cruise visitors with local communities while supporting sustainable tourism development.
Cruise Saudi manages activities across the onshore and offshore cruise value chain. This includes developing cruise gateways and coordinating with cruise lines and tourism partners to support calls along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.
AROYA Cruises Adds Homegrown Brand to Portfolio
One of the company’s milestones was the launch of AROYA Cruises in 2023. Established as the first Arabian cruise line, the brand was created around a “Remarkably Arabian” experience influenced by Saudi culture and hospitality.
Following seasons in the Red Sea and Mediterranean, the AROYA Cruises programme includes themed voyages linked to regional culture, seasonal occasions and lifestyle experiences. The sailings are designed for both regional and international guests.
“In just five years, 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.”
AMAN-at-Sea Scheduled to Launch in 2027
Cruise Saudi is also progressing AMAN-at-Sea, an ultra-luxury yacht project being developed with Aman Group. The project is scheduled to launch in 2027 and forms part of the company’s expanding cruise portfolio.
The yacht will focus on luxury experiences at sea as Cruise Saudi continues developing its operations across different areas of the cruise market.
New Gateways and Partnerships Planned
Cruise Saudi’s next phase will focus on building a resilient and internationally competitive cruise ecosystem. The company plans to continue expanding its presence through additional cruise gateways and strategic partnerships.
Its plans also include opening access to further destinations and experiences across the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. Collaboration with international cruise lines and tourism organisations will remain part of this expansion.
Cruise Saudi intends to use cruise development to support tourism diversification and sustainable growth, while continuing to incorporate Saudi culture, community participation, wellbeing and innovation into its destination and onboard portfolio.
Source: Official press release distributed by Cruise Saudi on 20 July 2026, Jeddah.
