The Saudi cruising industry has reached a major milestone as Aroya Cruises’ flagship vessel, Aroya, became the first Saudi cruise ship to dock at Sharm El Sheikh Port in Egypt. The historic visit on 31st December 2024 highlights the growing prominence of Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for cruise tourism.
This significant occasion was celebrated with a traditional plaque exchange ceremony at Sharm El Sheikh Port. Senior representatives from Aroya Cruises, including Dr. Jorg Rudolph, President of Aroya Cruises, and Captain Roland Polic, joined local dignitaries and port officials, including Major General Dr. Khalid Mubarak, Captain Ayman Munsif, and Commander Mohamed Al-Kahki, to mark the event.
Sharm El Sheikh ceremony marks next chapter in Red Sea tourism
Dr. Rudolph expressed his excitement about the visit, saying: “We are thrilled to now be taking our passengers to Sharm El Sheikh, marking an exciting chapter in the Red Sea’s tourism sector and our cruising journey. This ceremony not only celebrates our presence here, but also symbolises the beginning of a strong partnership with the port and the region. We look forward to many more visits and creating fun, diverse experiences for all of our valued guests to enjoy.”
The Aroya’s ship’s visit to Sharm El Sheikh underscores the company’s commitment to developing dynamic itineraries across the Red Sea. Following its stop in Egypt, the vessel will return to its home port in Jeddah, offering passengers a luxurious and culturally immersive ‘Remarkably Arabian’ cruise experience.
Launched in 2023, Aroya Cruises is part of Cruise Saudi, a company fully owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). This initiative is integral to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism destination.
Aroya, a blend of “Arabian” and “roya” (meaning vision), is a new venture by Cruise Saudi, a company owned by the Public Investment Fund – a leader in developing Saudi’s tourism industry. Aroya Cruises aims to showcase the best of Saudi Arabia from the sea, offering Arabian experiences that reflect the country’s heritage, beauty, and hospitality.
Guests will be able to explore Saudi’s diverse destinations, learn about its rich history and culture, and indulge in its cuisine and entertainment, all while being pampered by a friendly and professional crew.
Aroya Cruises will also set a high standard of quality and service in the region, with state-of-the-art facilities, shore excursions, and onboard activities that cater to the needs and preferences of its passengers.
The cruise line will operate as an independent brand within Cruise Saudi, with its own operational and management team led by Ghassan Khan, a veteran in the cruise industry.With 1,678 cabins, 29 dining venues, 20 entertainment options, and a host of world-class amenities, Aroya is the pinnacle of Arabian-style luxury cruising. The company has been instrumental in expanding cruise options in the region, highlighting the cultural richness, history, and natural beauty of Saudi Arabia and its neighbouring countries.
Cruise Saudi’s vision for the future
Cruise Saudi plays a pivotal role in transforming the Saudi coastline into a global hub for cruise tourism. The company has been creating world-class infrastructure and fostering local talent to support the industry’s rapid growth. Through partnerships with international cruise lines and the launch of Aroya Cruises, Cruise Saudi is paving the way for a vibrant and sustainable cruise ecosystem that showcases the best of the Kingdom’s offerings.
The docking of Aroya in Sharm El Sheikh not only strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and Egypt but also highlights the shared goal of advancing regional tourism and connectivity.
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Read also: AROYA arrives in Jeddah: Cruise Saudi unveils its first Arabian cruise ship
