Almaco Group reflects on refit work for Saudi Arabia’s first cruise ship Aroya

Almaco Group completed a refurbishment project aboard Aroya, the first cruise ship in the AROYA Cruises fleet, in November last year, just a few weeks prior to the ship’s debut in the Red Sea.

Sailing roundtrip cruises in the region from Jeddah, Aroya is the first vessel in the AROYA Cruises fleet, a start-up Saudi Arabian cruise line and the first in the Middle East designed specifically for the tastes and cultural preferences of the Arab world.

Aroya, which formerly sailed as World Dream for Genting Hong Kong, underwent renovations in Bremerhaven and Rotterdam for several months, during which she was transformed from bow to stern.

The project was completed in collaboration with MJM, which has previously described the full scope of the project as one of the largest refits in the history of the cruise industry.

Almaco Group’s scope of work on Aroya included the installation of two new galleys, a new kids’ cooking school, modifications in the main galley, and the addition of four new bars and cafes.

The group also replaced catering equipment in 12 different back and front-of-house areas and fully refurbished 800 square meters of public spaces.

According to a press release, more than 38 metric tons of new catering equipment was installed, sourced from 112 material suppliers.

The project was carried out between May and November 2024, involving participants from several of Almaco ‘s offices.

“The fantastic end result is a testament to the hard work and collaboration between MJM, the owner and our team,” said Esko Ryyppö, Project Manager at Almaco. “The teamwork has truly transformed the Aroya into a state-of-the-art cruise vessel.”

“As we celebrate the completion of this project, we extend our best wishes to the Aroya, Aroya Cruises and its guests for happy and safe sailing,” he added.

As part of the wider refit, all 1,678 cabins were upgraded and a range of new suites, dining areas and state-of-the-art entertainment facilities and public amenities were added.

The transformation has resulted in the largest retail and children’s venues at sea, with a plethora of entertainment and enrichment options, as well as a multitude of lounges and restaurants, replacing the bars and casino that previously existed aboard the ship as World Dream.

Aroya boasts 20 dining and lounge venues spread across 18 decks, a 1,018-seat theatre, the first Saudi Arabian restaurant at sea, IRTH, and the cruise industry’s first charcoal-based shisha lounges.