Cruise Saudi, a business fully owned by the Public Investment Fund, has made a significant announcement regarding the launch of its owned cruise line, AROYA Cruises, further driving the development of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.
Combining the words “Arabian” and “roya” (meaning vision or dream), AROYA Cruises aims to provide citizens, expatriates, and tourists with an opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s wonders from the sea.
The cruise line will prioritize showcasing Arabian experiences, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. It aims to create an immersive journey that embodies its brand values of inspiration, enrichment, generosity, and respect.
AROYA Cruises in Saudi Arabia is dedicated to offering an exceptional passenger experience with the highest standard of service, facilities, and a well-curated shore excursion program, setting itself apart as a unique offering in the region.
Lars Clasen, CEO of AROYA Cruises, expressed the significance of this milestone, highlighting its alignment with Cruise Saudi’s ambitious strategy to establish a premium cruise ecosystem in Saudi Arabia in line with Vision 2030.
AROYA Cruises will operate as an independent brand within the Cruise Saudi portfolio, catering specifically to Arabian preferences and providing experiences and services tailored to the region.
Ghassan Khan will lead AROYA Cruises as the head of its independent operational and management team. Khan’s role will support Cruise Saudi’s strategic goals of welcoming 1.3 million cruise visitors by 2035 and creating 50,000 direct and indirect job opportunities.
Khan expressed his excitement about the launch, considering it a privilege to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s transformation into an international cruising destination.
Currently, AROYA Cruises is developing its itineraries and packages, which will be announced at its forthcoming commercial launch in the coming months.