AROYA Cruises, Saudi Arabia’s first ever cruise line has been making waves as it gears for its inaugural voyages in the Red Sea this December.

Featuring 1,678 cabins including luxury suites and villas to accommodate just over 3300 cruise-goers, the ship boasts a range of experiences such as a 1,018-seat theatre, women’s only spaces and an extensive 1,500+ sqm children’s area.

With 16 restaurants and 12 cafés and lounges on-board, passengers will also be able to indulge in a variety of popular international cuisine. Highlights include IRTH, the first Saudi restaurant at sea, serving traditional Arabian dishes alongside other dining options that span Lebanese, Italian, and Asian flavours. 

The inaugural voyages will feature stops at Cruise Saudi’s private island as well as visits to prominent destinations in Egypt and Jordan to showcase the Red Sea region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. 

President of AROYA Cruises, Dr. Joerg Rudolph, spoke of the launch, saying, “The launch of our cruise line to commercial markets is an important milestone for both AROYA Cruises and for the tourism landscape in Saudi. We are thrilled that the public can now book sailings with us as we strive to reinvent the meaning of holidays in Arabia.” 

This cruise venture is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and boosting tourism with its flagship vessel, previously the World Dream.