Aroya, the first cruise ship in the fleet of the homegrown Saudi Arabian cruise line AROYA Cruises, has become the first cruise ship of the season to call at the DP World Sokhna cruise terminal in Egypt.

The visit highlights the port’s expertise in managing cruise operations and reaffirms its role as an essential gateway for both trade and tourism, DP World said in a statement.

Aroya embarked on her journey from Jeddah with 1,600 passengers, following an itinerary across the Red Sea, visiting destinations including Sokhna and Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, and Aqaba in Jordan, home to the Lost City of Petra.

DP World Sokhna’s cruise operations are designed to ensure a seamless experience for both passengers and cruise operators, supported by a dedicated team that manages immigration, customs clearance, and passenger disembarkation.

The terminal’s integrated logistics capabilities also streamline baggage handling and shore excursion coordination, enabling guests to explore Egypt’s rich cultural and historical landmarks without delays.

“Our modernised terminal is designed to support the growth of Egypt across several sectors, acting as a key gateway that is connecting the world to Egypt, and Egypt to the world,” said Avnash Iyer, COO & Acting CEO, Egypt, DP World. 

“The handling of our first passenger vessel this year reaffirms our capability to support the growth of Egypt’s economy, through tourism,” he added.

DP World Sokhna is a dynamic trade and logistics hub supporting a wide array of cargo and passenger operations. 

The port’s location and infrastructure continue to strengthen regional connectivity and contribute to the advancement of Egypt’s maritime and tourism industries, enhancing Egypt’s position as a crucial link in global trade.

The cruise terminal has enhanced the port’s appeal as a key Red Sea destination. While ongoing security concerns have prompted cruise lines to reroute itineraries, its development positions Egypt to capitalise on future opportunities when cruise operations resume in the region.

Aroya is due to return to Sokhna again in June this year, while Amadea and Amera of Phoenix Reisen will visit the port on grand voyages in April and May next year.

In 2027, Explora II of Explora Journeys is set to bring luxury itineraries to Egypt, sailing roundtrip from Safaga in February and March, and visiting Sokhna and other ports in the Red Sea. 

Silversea’s vessel Silver Muse will also call in Sokhna port on her 35-night voyage from Singaport to Athens in April, 2027.