Cruise Saudi plans further expansion after launching Arabia’s 1st cruise line

Having launched the Arab world’s first homegrown cruise line and opened five cruise gateways across Saudi Arabia, Cruise Saudi is entering its next phase of growth.

The company says it is now focused on expanding the Kingdom’s cruise ecosystem through new destinations, strategic partnerships, and further investment in infrastructure as Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a key cruise destination in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.

Established in 2021, Cruise Saudi oversees the development and operation of the Kingdom’s cruise infrastructure, including ports, terminals, shore excursions, destination experiences, and vessel services.

Over the past five years, the company has activated five cruise ports and gateways across the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to diversify its tourism sector under Vision 2030.

“In our five-year journey, Cruise Saudi has moved from ambition to delivery — transforming ports into gateways and cruise calls into meaningful destination experiences,” said Taha Nazer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Cruise Saudi.

“Our next chapter is about elevating quality even further: curating journeys that reflect Saudi Arabia’s culture, support local communities, and set new benchmarks for wellbeing and innovation at sea,” he added.

One of the company’s most significant milestones came in December 2024 with the launch of AROYA Cruises, the first cruise line created specifically for the Arabian market.

The brand welcomed its first guests on December 16th, 2024, and has since established itself as the flagship of Saudi Arabia’s growing cruise ambitions, operating itineraries that showcase destinations across the Red Sea.

Cruise Saudi is also progressing the development of Aman at Sea, the ultra-luxury cruise venture created in partnership with hospitality brand Aman.

Its first vessel, Amangati, is currently under construction and is scheduled to enter service in 2027, marking Aman Group’s debut in the cruise sector.

Alongside developing cruise brands, Cruise Saudi has invested heavily in port infrastructure and destination development, working to establish the operational foundations needed to attract international cruise lines while creating experiences that encourage longer stays and increased visitor spending ashore.

Looking ahead, the company said it intends to continue expanding its network of cruise gateways while strengthening partnerships across the tourism and maritime sectors.

Future growth will focus on unlocking additional destinations along both the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, while further developing Saudi Arabia’s cruise offering through destination experiences designed to reflect the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and natural attractions.

The strategy also aims to support local communities by creating new tourism opportunities while contributing to the broader diversification of the Saudi Arabian economy.