AROYA Cruises offers faith-based option for Muslims undertaking Hajj and Umrah

Aroya Cruises, the world’s first halal-certified cruise line, has launched a new faith-based cruise option for Muslims undertaking the Hajj and Umrah.

The initiative aims to offer Indonesian pilgrims a spiritual journey by sea, combining religious observance with Islamic hospitality and cultural discovery.

The Aroya Umrah Cruises Experience and 3D2N Langkawi Halal Cruises were unveiled at a launch event held at Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta.

Speaking at the ceremony, Suhaimi Abd Gafer, Chief Executive Officer of Islamic Cruise International, said the project reflects a growing demand for pilgrimage experiences that fully align with Islamic values.

“Aroya Cruise introduces a new experience for Muslims in Indonesia to perform Hajj and Umrah in a way that fully reflects Islamic principles,” he said.

Aroya Cruises operates under the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) as part of the Kingdom’s broader tourism diversification strategy.

Its first ship, Aroya, embodies the concept of halal tourism, with halal certification visible throughout the ship and all facilities designed to accommodate Muslim guests.

The ship features 27 restaurants serving certified cuisine without the need for lengthy waits, prayer rooms, and separate leisure areas for men and women.

Expansive balconies and open public spaces provide passengers with a comfortable and tranquil environment during their voyage.

The itinerary begins at Port Klang, Malaysia, and continues to Banda Aceh, the Maldives, Oman, and onward to Mecca and Jeddah.

In addition to serving as a means of travel for Hajj and Umrah, the cruise offers passengers opportunities to explore Islamic heritage and cultural landmarks at each port of call.

Project Director of Islamic Cruise International said passengers would be able to engage with Islamic history throughout the journey.

“In Oman, passengers can admire historic Islamic architecture. In the Maldives, they can appreciate the beauty of the sea, while in Banda Aceh they will encounter its distinctive spiritual atmosphere,” he said.

Aroya Cruises is currently offering a promotional fare of US$4,695 for two passengers, valid for three months, after which standard pricing will be set at approximately US$3,491 per person.

The cruise line expects strong interest from Indonesia and other Muslim-majority countries seeking new and spiritually meaningful ways to undertake religious travel.