AD Ports launches Red Sea cruise operations across three Egyptian terminals

AD Ports Group has launched cruise operations across three Egyptian Red Sea ports, marking an expansion of its regional tourism and maritime network.

The company confirmed the start of operations at cruise terminals in Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga, following its concession agreement to manage and develop the facilities along Egypt’s Red Sea coast.

The move positions the three ports as coordinated cruise destinations within both regional and international itineraries, while also supporting broader efforts to strengthen connectivity across the Red Sea corridor.

The launch coincided with the arrival of Aroya, of Saudi Arabian cruise line AROYA Cruises, at Sharm El Sheikh, marking the largest cruise vessel to dock directly in the resort city.

The call represents the first of several scheduled visits by the 180,000 gross ton ship in 2026, signalling increased deployment of larger vessels in the region.

The expansion builds on a 15-year concession agreement signed in 2024 between AD Ports Group and Egypt’s Red Sea Ports Authority, covering the management, development, and operation of cruise terminals and associated ferry services.

“The launch of AD Ports Group’s cruise and ferry terminal services in Egypt underscores our commitment to advancing cruise tourism across the Red Sea while driving sustainable economic value in the markets where we operate,” said Noura R. Al Dhaheri, CEO, Cruise Business, AD Ports Group.

“Through close collaboration with our partners, we will continue to elevate passenger experience by delivering world-class facilities and seamless services,” she said.

In parallel with cruise operations, the group has also operated ferry services linking Safaga with NEOM Port in Saudi Arabia to facilitate the movement of Hajj workers during the pilgrimage season, highlighting the dual-use role of the infrastructure.

The development forms part of AD Ports Group’s broader strategy to expand its integrated trade, transport, and logistics footprint across Egypt and the wider region.

In addition to cruise operations, the company is preparing to launch the Noatum Ports Safaga Terminal, a US$200 million multipurpose cargo facility intended to serve southern Upper Egypt.

Further investments include the development of the KEZAD East Port Said Industrial and Logistics Park at the Mediterranean entrance of the Suez Canal, as well as a minority stake in Alexandria Container and Cargo Handling Company.

The launch of cruise operations across the three Red Sea ports reflects increasing alignment between Gulf-based operators and Egyptian infrastructure development, with the Red Sea emerging as a growing focus for cruise deployment and maritime connectivity.

As cruise lines continue to explore alternative routing and expand into emerging destinations, the coordinated development of ports in Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga is expected to strengthen Egypt’s position within regional cruise itineraries linking the Middle East, Africa, and the Mediterranean.