Cruise Saudi, the parent company of the Saudi Arabian start-up cruise line Aroya Cruises, has announced that MJM Marine and DE Wave will handle the fit and finish for its first ship Manara, the former World Dream.

The ship is currently in dry dock in Germany where it is undergoing a comprehensive refit and refurbishment that will see 98% of its interior structure and design altered, according to Aroya Cruises.

MJM Marine and DE Wave are two leading companies in the design and construction of cruise ship and luxury yacht interiors, suggesting the premium market segment Aroya Cruises intends to target when it enters service in 2024.

World Dream has been purchased by Cruise Saudi and renamed Manara.

“The creation of a premium cruise experience starts from the design phase and by working with two of the cruise sector’s most well-regarded outfitters, we’re demonstrating our commitment to making Aroya Cruises an exceptional product,” said Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi.

“We look forward to seeing the knowledge, passion and creativity that MJM Marine and DE Wave bring to the first Aroya Cruises ship,” he added.

MJM Marine will upgrade existing cabins and suites, as well as oversee the creation of multiple culinary, retail and relaxation venues, according to a press release.

On the technical side, the company will also manage the steelwork modifications, upgrades to onboard electrical and mechanical services, and the manufacture and installation of bespoke furniture, finishes, ceiling features and seating.

MJM Marine handled the interior fit out for Celebrity Apex.

DE Wave will outfit AROYA Cruises’ upper deck areas, including new super suites, public areas, and catering areas. Together, the companies will refurbish 98 pecent of the guest-facing venues aboard the ship.

World Dream was purchased earlier this year by Cruise Saudi following the collapse of Dream Cruises of Genting Hong Kong.

It will be transformed into a showcase for Saudi Arabian hospitality and culture and will homeport in Jeddah, offering yet-to-be-revealed roundtrip cruises in the Red Sea and further afield.

The changes being made to the onboard design and cruise experience have not yet been detailed, with the most eagerly anticipated details being whether the cruise line will serve alcohol onboard, and whether it will feature a casino like most ships.

Alcohol consumption is not allowed in Saudi Arabia, and gambling is forbidden, but there have been rumours that Aroya Cruises will be operated as an offshore entity, creating a legal loophole in which it will be able to offer such services in international waters.