AROYA Cruises debuts shopping mall at sea aboard first ship Aroya

AROYA Cruises has revealed the retail experience aboard its first ship Aroya, with German retailer and distributor Gebr. Heinemann having opened eight stores featuring more than 250 international and Arabian brands across three decks.

The boutiques will be staffed by more than 30 Heinemann employees, offering unique shopping experiences and customer service comparative with what AROYA passengers would be used to shopping at high-end stores on land in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other GCC countries.

“We are delighted to be able to offer our guests an extraordinary onboard shopping experience,” said Dr. Jörg Rudolph, President of Aroya Cruises. “Working closely with our partner, Gebr. Heinemann, we combined our insights to create a unique retail concept that includes bespoke shopping services, high-end global and Arabian brands, and excellent customer service.”

AROYA Cruises is the first homegrown cruise brand in the Arab world, and the only cruise line in the world specifically targetting the Middle East cruise market, with onboard facilities, amenities and services designed to cater to their unique tastes and preferences.

“Aroya is the first Saudi Arabian ship to set sail – we are proud to be part of this historic moment and to offer the passengers of the ship a first-class shopping experience,” said Kerstin Schepers, Managing Director of Heinemann Cruise Liner Global GmbH.

The boutiques aboard Aroya include:

Aroya Souk (Deck 6): Specialising in regional gifts, delicacies and sweets, including dates from Nua and Bateel, as well as Aroya logo merchandise.

Aroya Dukkan (Deck 6): A convenience store with a variety of everyday products.

Fragrances & Cosmetics Boutique (Deck 7): Offering a selection of perfumes, cosmetics and Bakhoor incense sticks.

Kids Boutique (Deck 7): Featuring toys and branded clothing for children, with digital fish animations for added interactivity.

Sunglasses & Leather Boutique (Deck 7): Selling sunglasses and leather goods.

Watches & Jewelry Boutique (Deck 7): Premium watches and jewelry.

Fashion & Accessories Boutique (Deck 7): A selection of clothing and accessories.

Khuzama Boutique (Deck 16): A VIP boutique featuring luxury products and an exclusive shopping experience, with appointments available via the concierge.

Gebr. Heinemann is a leading cruise ship retailer and distributor, with operations that span more than 230 cruise ships and ferries, including the world’s leading cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line.