Saudi cruise start-up Aroya partners with tech leaders to digitise operations

Saudi Arabia’s start-up cruise line Aroya Cruises, the first domestic cruise company for the Arab world and wider Middle East, is going big on technology as it looks to digitise booking and the onboard experience for passengers.

Cruise Saudi, the parent company of Aroya Cruises, has signed partnerships with various tech organizationsahead of the cruise line’s intended launch next year with the former World Dream, which is undergoing a refit in Germany.

Partners include Monitor Deloitte, Alibaba Cloud SA, theICEway, SourceToad, Otalio, and Versonix Seawareto handle various aspects of the cruise experience, from booking to boarding and scheduling events around the ship.

Monitor Deloitte will oversee project management for the digitisation process to ensure every technological decision meets the ultimate needs of Aroya Cruises.

Alibaba Cloud Saudi Arabia will lay the digital foundation for AROYA Cruises, providing features for passengers, such as an interactive ship map, daily itineraries, and reservations for shore excursions, dining, and spa treatments.

Sourcetoad’s digital concierge will be the central hub of onboard connectivity and engagement, while Otalio’s Ship Property Management System (SPMS) will provide guests with curated experiences from the cabin to the deck.

Versonix Seaware, meanwhile, will provide what Aroya Cruises promises will be an intuitive booking experience.

“We are proud to be working in collaboration with world-leading technology companies to integrate cutting-edge technology into the AROYA Cruises experience,” said Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen.

“Creating a seamless, modern and comfortable journey for our passengers really is at the heart of our offering, and investing in technology to enhance the cruising experience truly aligns with our future-forward ambitions for this cruise line,” he added.

The appointment of Aroya Cruises’ tech partners comes after SMC and Partner Ship Design were appointed to handle the refit and refurbishment of World Dream.

Aroya Cruises has also announced that MJM Marine and DE Wave had been appointed to handle the fit and finish of the interior of the ship, while leading cruise retail operator Gebr. Heinemann will operate the ship’s onboard mall.

Meanwhile Columbia Blue will handle ship management for the new cruise line, including staffing and technical support.