Cruise Saudi launches AROYA Cruises’ first Arabian Gulf season with flexible, “Remarkably Arabian” itineraries

SAUDI ARABIA – Cruise Saudi, a company wholly owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has unveiled the inaugural Arabian Gulf sailing season for its new cruise line, AROYA Cruises.

Commencing in February 2026, the season introduces a range of voyages from short two-night escapes to seven-night journeys, designed to make regional cruising more accessible and to showcase the Gulf’s destinations through a uniquely Arabian hospitality lens.

Curated Gulf Itineraries with Multiple Embarkation Hubs

The inaugural season features itineraries calling at iconic ports across the Gulf, including Dubai, Dammam, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Khasab, and Sir Bani Yas Island.

A key strategic feature is the flexibility offered by multiple embarkation ports across key cities in three Gulf countries, allowing guests to start their voyage closer to home.

The flagship vessel will set sail on its first seven-night cruise from Dubai on February 21, 2026.

Lars Clasen, Cruise Saudi CEO and Interim President of AROYA Cruises, stated that the launch reinforces AROYA’s role as a key pillar in regional tourism, introducing a new way to holiday in the GCC and inviting residents to rediscover familiar destinations from a fresh perspective by sea.

Onboard Experience Centered on “Hafawa” Hospitality

AROYA’s onboard philosophy is built around “Hafawa,” a Saudi concept of intuitive, generous hospitality aimed at creating a deep sense of comfort and belonging.

The experience blends authentic Saudi culture with world-class cruise standards, featuring diverse international cuisine alongside pioneering local offerings like ‘Irth,’ the first Saudi restaurant at sea. Entertainment spans from authentic local performances to international acts.

For a premium experience, the Khuzama VIP section offers exclusive suites, private dining, and personalized butler service.

A Strategic Pillar for Regional Tourism Diversification

The launch of AROYA’s operational season marks a pivotal step in building a comprehensive cruise ecosystem in the region, a core objective of Cruise Saudi.

By offering shorter, flexible itineraries and leveraging multiple homeports, AROYA directly targets the regional GCC resident market, making cruising a more convenient and appealing option.

This not only stimulates maritime tourism but also supports wider tourism flows, as passengers explore and spend in port cities.

The “Remarkably Arabian” positioning distinguishes it from international cruise lines, offering a culturally resonant product that supports Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 goals of tourism diversification and economic development, while elevating the Gulf as a unified, multi-destination cruise region.

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