Cruise Saudi has confirmed that AlWajh will play a strategic role in its expansion plans, serving as the main cruise gateway to AlUla — one of Saudi Arabia’s most culturally and historically significant destinations.

Speaking on the MedCruise Insider podcast, Serafin Blazquez, Executive Director at Cruise Saudi, said: “We also have two other projects that are under development. One is AlWajh. AlWajh will be our gateway to AlUla.”

Located on the Red Sea coast, AlWajh is a historic port town known for its coral stone architecture and proximity to AlUla, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has become a centrepiece of Saudi Arabia’s tourism transformation under Vision 2030. 

AlUla is home to Hegra (Madain Salih), the first UNESCO-listed site in the Kingdom, as well as dramatic desert landscapes, rock-cut tombs, and contemporary cultural attractions such as Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building.

By positioning AlWajh as a cruise port gateway to AlUla, Cruise Saudi aims to connect international cruise passengers with one of the Kingdom’s most iconic inland destinations, similar to Aqaba’s draw as the primary cruise gateway to the Lost City of Petra. 

The move reflects the company’s broader strategy to blend coastal and cultural experiences and to support Saudi Arabia’s goal of welcoming 150 million visitors annually by 2030.

As with other ports in Cruise Saudi’s portfolio, the development of AlWajh involves close coordination with government and private sector stakeholders to ensure both operational readiness and destination appeal.

“There are different needs … so we identify all these requests and all these needs,” Blazquez said. “We put together all these requirements and needs to customize our services and to be sure that we are providing the best experience to all the passengers. We never forget the crew members.”

AlWajh will join existing operational ports in Jeddah, Yanbu, Dammam and Saba Beach, supporting Cruise Saudi’s long-term objective of developing 10 cruise destinations by 2030 and welcoming 1.33 million cruise passengers by 2037.

Cruise Saudi’s Operational Ports

Jeddah: Saudi Arabia’s primary cruise hub and turnaround port on the Red Sea, offering access to historic districts and religious landmarks.

Yanbu: A smaller Red Sea port city known for its diving spots, coastal charm, and proximity to desert excursions.

Dammam: A key Arabian Gulf port linking cruise visitors to the Eastern Province, including Al Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saba Beach: Cruise Saudi’s first private island development, featuring coral reefs, lagoons, and sustainable beachfront experiences in a controlled setting.