Aroya Cruises has confirmed a change in its senior leadership, announcing that Dr Jörg Rudolph has concluded his tenure as president. 

The company has not yet named a successor, and CEO Lars Clasen will assume the role of interim president while retaining his existing responsibilities.

In a statement, the company expressed its appreciation for Rudolph’s contribution during a period that saw the establishment of Saudi Arabia’s first domestic cruise line and the development of its operational framework. 

“Dr. Rudolph has played a key role in the early success of AROYA Cruises, helping bring the product to life,” said Lars Clasen, CEO, Cruise Saudi, the parent company of AROYA. “As we move into our next chapter, this transition represents a natural and positive evolution for AROYA Cruises. We are focused on accelerating growth, enhancing performance and continuing to deliver remarkably Arabian experiences that reflect the spirit and hospitality of Saudi Arabia.”

Rudolph’s departure follows a tenure marked by several milestones for the new cruise brand. He oversaw the extensive refit and refurbishment of the line’s first ship, Aroya, and its relaunch into service in late 2024. 

Under his leadership, AROYA Cruises conducted its first international deployment, operating a fly-cruise season in the Mediterranean during summer 2025. The line subsequently expanded into the Arabian Gulf for the first time, debuting itineraries for 2026 designed to introduce the AROYA product to a wider regional audience.

Rudolph also played a central role in supporting Cruise Saudi’s wider development strategy, including the opening of new cruise destination islands in the Red Sea. These projects form part of Saudi Arabia’s long-term tourism plan and are intended to create new homeports and ports of call in an emerging cruise region.

AROYA Cruises said the transition marks the beginning of its next phase of growth, focused on strengthening commercial performance and operational reliability. The company stated that it “remains steadfast in its mission to redefine the cruise experience in the region through innovation, authenticity and exceptional guest journeys.”

Clasen will lead the organisation during the interim period, supported by the company’s leadership teams to ensure continuity of operations. According to the statement, guest services, scheduled itineraries and partner programmes will continue as planned.

AROYA Cruises did not indicate when a permanent president will be appointed but said the company’s direction and long-term objectives remain unchanged as it works to build a sustainable cruise sector in Saudi Arabia.