AROYA Cruises doubles down on Saudi hospitality as it looks to Arabian Gulf expansion

AROYA Cruises, the world’s first Arab cruise line, operated by Cruise Saudi and owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), continues to build its presence in global cruise tourism with a distinctly Saudi identity. 

AROYA forms part of the Kingdom’s wider ambition to strengthen its role in the cruise and tourism sector and began operations on December 16th, 2024, with the inaugural sailing of its first ship, Aroya, from Jeddah Islamic Port in the Red Sea. 

Since then, it has established itself as a floating resort spread across 19 decks, accommodating up to 3,362 passengers in 1,678 cabins and suites. Every aspect of the vessel has been designed to reflect Saudi hospitality and contemporary luxury.

In summer 2025, AROYA expanded into the Mediterranean, launching its first voyage on June 28th from Galataport in Istanbul. 

The itinerary included Athens, Mykonos, Souda Bay, and Bodrum, with sailings continuing through mid-September on six- to seven-night cruises covering destinations in Turkey, Greece and Egypt, including Alexandria.

As the cruise line looks to further expansion, with its first season in the Arabian Gulf planned for early 2026 from February to April, it will bring its unique take on cruising to Dubai and Dammam.

Saudi cultural influences are visible throughout the ship, from the interior design to its food and entertainment offerings. AROYA features 12 restaurants and 17 cafés serving cuisine from across five continents, while also showcasing authentic Saudi flavours. 

In partnership with the Culinary Arts Commission, the line introduced Irth, the first Saudi restaurant at sea, and collaborated with Sawani to serve camel milk products under the Noug brand.

The ship offers more than 20 entertainment facilities, including the largest children’s area at sea at 1,800 square metres, the 1,018-seat AROYA Theatre, and a retail district inspired by traditional souqs. 

A sports complex, jogging track and full-service wellness centre are also available among the leisure offering.

Accommodation options include the Khuzama area, a ship-within-a-ship luxury enclave with 145 suites and nine villas. The villas, measuring 395 square metres, provide exclusive services and amenities. 

Dedicated prayer areas are also available, while spa facilities allocate specific hours for women, reflecting Saudi cultural and social traditions.

AROYA’s move into the Mediterranean and expansion to the Arabian Gulf less than a year after debuting in the Red Sea highlights its growth trajectory and the Kingdom’s wider ambitions in cruise tourism. 

The brand embodies Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by supporting economic diversification and investing in tourism infrastructure, while reinforcing the Kingdom’s position on the global tourism map.