When Saudi Arabia launched its first national cruise line last December, the industry watched with curiosity. Could a brand built on “hafawa,” the Saudi concept of warm, authentic hospitality, really compete on the global stage of luxury cruising?
Just eight months later, AROYA Cruises has given its answer. Not only has the line sailed successful Red Sea itineraries and dipped into the Mediterranean, it is now preparing its boldest move yet – a full Arabian Gulf debut in 2026. And the timing couldn’t be better, as demand for halal-friendly cruises and culturally sensitive holidays climbs worldwide. According to Future Market Insights, the global Halal tourism market is projected to reach $301.9 billion by 2025 and $548.1 billion by 2035, growing at a strong 6.1% CAGR from 2025 to 2035.
From the Red Sea to the world
AROYA’s story began with a spectacular splash. On 16 December 2024, the Cruise Saudi brand and subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund welcomed its first passengers aboard in Jeddah.
The ship itself is a floating statement of intent. With 19 decks, 1,678 cabins, and room for more than 3,300 guests, AROYA has been crafted as a perfect fusion of modern luxury and Arabian tradition. Beyond the grand lobby and glittering theatre, guests discover touches that speak directly to Saudi culture – a souq-style shopping area, the Irth restaurant in partnership with the Culinary Arts Commission, and design cues rooted in the Kingdom’s landscapes.
AROYA’s cultural mission is: “We want our guests to feel the depth of Arabian hospitality at sea,” executives have said, emphasising the line’s role in Vision 2030.
The Arabian Gulf debut
In its next chapter from February 2026, AROYA will sail the Arabian Gulf for the first time, home-porting in Dubai and Dammam.
For two months, travellers can choose between seven-night voyages from Dubai to Muscat, Doha, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas, or shorter five-night cruises linking Gulf capitals from Dammam. The season culminates with a repositioning trip through Oman to Jeddah, then onwards to Egypt.
This milestone marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s ambitious push to establish itself as a major player in the global cruise tourism industry.
Setting the standard in halal cruising
What makes AROYA’s expansion particularly significant is the global rise of halal travel. Muslim travellers are increasingly seeking holidays that cater to their values without compromising on quality or luxury. In the cruise sector, this demand is still largely underserved. AROYA is stepping into this gap with confidence. On board, guests find:
- Dedicated prayer rooms
- Women-only spa and wellness hours
- A culinary experience anchored in halal cuisine
For families, the line boasts the largest children’s play area at sea, a vast waterpark, and even private villa-style suites for those seeking exclusivity. These features place AROYA not just as a cruise line, but as a pioneer in halal-compliant luxury cruising.
A cruise line with cultural depth
While Western cruise giants often market to Middle Eastern travellers with modified menus or themed nights, AROYA’s proposition is different as it is authentically of the region. From the Khuzama enclave’s private retreats to the entertainment programme rooted in Arabian arts, everything feels intentional, not adapted.
This cultural confidence may prove to be its strongest asset. With its expansion into the Gulf, AROYA is not only catering to Saudi travellers, but also appealing to a wider market of Muslim-majority nations and faith-sensitive travellers worldwide.
