Cruise Saudi to collaborate with university to develop local cruise sector capabilities

Cruise Saudi has signed an agreement with the University of Prince Mugrin (UPM) in Madinah to support talent development in Saudi Arabia’s growing cruise sector, ahead of the maiden cruise of its new AROYA Cruises brand.

The agreement was signed on December 15th, 2024, at Cruise Saudi’s office in Jeddah, the day before the first passenger voyage of Aroya, the first cruise ship in the fleet of AROYA Cruises, the Arab world’s first homegrown cruise line, and the only cruise line in the world specifically targeting Muslim passengers.

Under the agreement, Cruise Saudi will provide industry expertise to help develop training programmes and curricula at UPM, ensuring that the educational courses offered by the university align with the needs of the rapidly expanding cruise industry.

“This collaboration with the University of Prince Mugrin is a significant step towards shaping the future workforce for the cruise industry in Saudi,” said Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi. “This partnership will help create valuable opportunities for Saudis and contribute to the success of the Kingdom’s tourism sector.”

UPM will leverage its academic resources to develop training programmes that equip students with the skills required for careers in cruise tourism, while Cruise Saudi will also create internship opportunities, providing students with practical experience and strengthening ties between the education and the cruise industries.

“The tourism and hospitality sectors are integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, representing key pillars in the Kingdom’s ambitious journey toward economic diversification and global recognition as a premier destination,” said Dr. Bandar Hajjar, President of UPM. “At the University of Prince Mugrin, we are deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals who will lead this transformation.” 

“Our partnership with Cruise Saudi reflects this vision, fostering innovation, practical training, and industry collaboration to empower our students to contribute meaningfully to the flourishing Saudi tourism ecosystem,” he added.

The new agreement builds on the ongoing collaboration between Cruise Saudi and the University of Prince Mugrin, following their first MoU in 2021. The university contributed to the success of Cruise Saudi’s Ambassadors Programme, in which 56 students from the Saudi Hospitality and Tourism department gained practical experience through onboard training with MSC Cruises’ industry experts.

MSC Cruises homeported in Jedah during the 2021/22 cruise season, but has since been forced to suspend its Red Sea itineraries out of Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing security concerns around the Bab Al Mandeb Strait.