Aroya Cruises Milestone: Over 140,000 Travelers Sail the Red Sea and Mediterranean, Opening a New Era of Arabian Cruise Adventures

Published on December 17, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s cruise tourism journey has reached an important moment. Aroya Cruises has completed its first year of operations by welcoming more than 140,000 passengers. For global travelers, this milestone reflects the rising appeal of Arabian cruise routes and a growing choice of culturally immersive sea journeys.

Launched as Saudi Arabia’s first homegrown cruise brand, Aroya Cruises represents a new chapter in regional travel. The cruise line was developed to support the country’s long-term tourism strategy, opening its seas to international visitors while offering locals new holiday options closer to home.

Why This Milestone Matters to Travelers

Carrying 140,000 guests within the first year signals strong confidence from travelers across multiple regions. Passengers came from Saudi Arabia, the wider Gulf, Europe, and other international markets. Many travelers combined cruises with land journeys, turning a single voyage into a multi-destination holiday.

For tourists, this success confirms that Arabian cruise experiences are no longer experimental. They are becoming a reliable and attractive option alongside established Mediterranean and Caribbean routes.

Red Sea Cruises: A Unique Travel Experience

One of Aroya Cruises’ strongest draws is its Red Sea itineraries. Departing from Jeddah, these sailings introduce travelers to a region known for clear waters, coral reefs, and desert landscapes meeting the sea.

Red Sea cruises appeal to travelers seeking quieter routes, uncrowded beaches, and a sense of discovery. Private island stops allow guests to enjoy beach activities, water sports, and relaxation without large crowds. Cultural excursions onshore give visitors a chance to explore historic districts, traditional markets, and coastal heritage sites.

For travelers interested in nature and culture, the Red Sea offers a refreshing alternative to more commercial cruise regions.

Mediterranean Voyages with an Arabian Touch

During its first year, Aroya Cruises also expanded into the Mediterranean. Summer sailings departed from Istanbul and explored iconic destinations across Greece, Türkiye, and Egypt.

These itineraries appealed to travelers who enjoy blending classic European destinations with modern onboard comfort inspired by Arabian hospitality. Ports such as Athens, Greek islands, Turkish coastal cities, and historic Egyptian hubs provided opportunities for sightseeing, cuisine exploration, and cultural immersion.

For first-time cruisers, these Mediterranean routes offered familiarity with a new perspective. For seasoned travelers, they delivered a different onboard atmosphere that blends tradition with contemporary travel trends.

Onboard Experience Designed for Comfort

Aroya’s cruise ship was designed to reflect regional identity while meeting international expectations. Spacious cabins, family-friendly facilities, wellness areas, entertainment venues, and diverse dining options aim to serve travelers of all ages.

Food plays a key role in the onboard experience. Menus combine international favorites with Middle Eastern flavors, allowing guests to explore regional cuisine without leaving the ship. This focus on cultural identity adds depth to the journey, especially for travelers curious about Arabian traditions.

What’s Next for Curious Travelers

Looking ahead, Aroya Cruises is expanding its horizons. New itineraries are planned across the Arabian Gulf, connecting destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Dammam. These routes will allow travelers to explore multiple Gulf cities in one seamless journey.

The cruise line is also introducing themed sailings, including voyages linked to major sporting and entertainment events. These experiences are designed for travelers who want more than sightseeing, combining leisure with special interests.

For global tourists, these expansions mean greater flexibility, more departure points, and a wider range of travel styles.

Practical Travel Tips for First-Time Guests

Travelers considering an Arabian cruise should plan ahead. Passport validity and visa requirements may vary by destination, so checking entry rules early is essential. Seasonal planning is also important, as cooler months are ideal for Red Sea and Gulf travel, while Mediterranean cruises shine during summer.

Cultural awareness enhances the journey. Dressing modestly during shore excursions, respecting local customs, and exploring heritage attractions can enrich the travel experience.

A Growing Choice for Global Cruise Travelers

The Aroya Cruises milestone demonstrates how quickly Saudi Arabia is becoming a cruise destination of global relevance. For travelers, it means access to new seas, cultures, and stories without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Whether exploring the calm waters of the Red Sea, historic Mediterranean ports, or modern Gulf cities, Aroya Cruises offers travelers a fresh way to see the world—one voyage at a time.