Celestyal Discovery’s Inaugural Visit to Saudi Arabia Marks New Era for Red Sea Cruises and Tourism Growth in Jeddah – Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on December 7, 2025

Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step forward in its journey to becoming a major cruise tourism hub. On Friday, the Greek cruise ship Celestyal Discovery made its inaugural visit to Jeddah Islamic Port, marking a historic milestone for the Kingdom’s cruise industry. This occasion is part of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to enhance its presence on the Red Sea tourism map, offering visitors from all corners of the globe a chance to experience its growing cruise sector. The event was attended by key figures from both Cruise Saudi and Celestyal Cruises, symbolizing the strengthening partnership between Saudi Arabia and international cruise operators. This historic visit, along with recent successful cruises, is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to tourism growth under the framework of Vision 2030, aimed at boosting the economy, creating jobs, and fostering global tourism.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Role in the Cruise Sector

Saudi Arabia is quickly positioning itself as an emerging hub for Red Sea cruises, with a focus on enhancing its infrastructure and making significant strides in the cruise industry. The Kingdom has already welcomed more than 600,000 passengers from over 120 countries, showing the growing international interest in Saudi cruise destinations. With more international ships docking at its ports, Saudi Arabia continues to build on its strategic location as a pivotal stop in the region, catering to travelers looking to explore the Red Sea and beyond.

The recent visit of the Celestyal Discovery serves as a strong indicator that Saudi Arabia’s port facilities and services are ready to handle large-scale international cruise operations. It demonstrates the increasing interest in Saudi Arabia’s cruise tourism offerings, which are only expected to grow in the coming years. The event marked the first of many more to come, with Cruise Saudi actively working to develop additional cruise ports and terminals along the Red Sea coast.

Commemorative Plaque Exchange Marks Historic Event

In line with international traditions in the cruise industry, a commemorative plaque exchange ceremony was held during the Celestyal Discovery’s arrival. This symbolic gesture highlights the longstanding cooperation between Cruise Saudi and Celestyal Cruises. The exchange of plaques is a widely recognized tradition that fosters goodwill between cruise operators and port authorities. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, and Chris Theophilides, CEO of Celestyal Cruises, alongside other maritime officials.

This momentous occasion underscores the shared commitment between Saudi Arabia and Celestyal Cruises to enhance cruise tourism and to further integrate the Kingdom into the international cruise sector. The Celestyal Discovery is just the latest addition to the growing list of international ships arriving at Saudi ports, and it’s anticipated that more cruise lines will soon follow suit.

Red Sea Cruise Demand Surges with International Involvement

The timing of the Celestyal Discovery’s visit is particularly significant, as it follows the successful inaugural visit of another Celestyal Cruises ship, the Celestyal Journey, on November 29, 2025. Both ships carried more than 400 international tourists from Europe and the United States, highlighting the growing demand for Red Sea itineraries. The increasing popularity of Saudi Arabia as a cruise destination is a clear reflection of the country’s dedication to its Vision 2030 objectives, particularly its goals for tourism diversification and economic transformation.

With a dedicated focus on both international tourists and local experiences, Saudi ports are quickly adapting to the needs of the cruise industry, ensuring that ships can dock and passengers can embark on memorable journeys exploring the Kingdom’s rich culture and coastal beauty. The Kingdom has also announced plans for a series of future projects, aimed at boosting cruise infrastructure, making Saudi Arabia an even more attractive destination for cruise operators and tourists alike.

Travel Tips: What You Should Know Before Your Cruise in Saudi Arabia

If you’re planning a cruise to Saudi Arabia, there are several things you should know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

1. Visa Requirements: Saudi Arabia now offers tourist visas to citizens from over 50 countries. Be sure to check the latest visa requirements before booking your cruise.
2. Best Time to Visit: The most ideal months for cruising in Saudi Arabia are during the winter, from November to March, when temperatures are pleasant, and the region’s beauty can be fully appreciated.
3. Explore Jeddah: As the main port of entry for many cruises, Jeddah offers travelers an exciting blend of historical charm and modern attractions. Be sure to visit the historic district of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the stunning King Fahd Fountain.
4. Cultural Etiquette: Saudi Arabia is rich in culture and tradition. When visiting, be respectful of local customs and dress codes. Women may be required to wear modest clothing, and it’s important to respect Islamic practices, such as prayer times.
5. Excursions and Activities: Make sure to book excursions that take you beyond the ports. Whether it’s diving in the Red Sea, exploring Al Ula, or taking part in Desert safaris, Saudi Arabia offers an array of unique experiences for every type of traveler.

The Future of Saudi Arabia’s Cruise Tourism Industry

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia is poised to further enhance its role in the global cruise tourism market. Under the Vision 2030 initiative, the country is investing heavily in infrastructure to support the growth of the tourism sector. The recent developments in the cruise industry, including new port facilities and enhanced services, are part of the broader strategy to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and increase tourism revenue.

With the increasing arrival of international cruise ships, Saudi Arabia is making waves in the cruise tourism sector. The arrival of the Celestyal Discovery is just the beginning of what is set to be a dynamic period for Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea cruise offerings. In addition to creating economic opportunities, these developments are helping to position Saudi Arabia as a prominent player in the global tourism industry.