AROYA Cruises Expands Into Mediterranean, Showcasing Saudi Identity at Sea

📷COURTESY OF SPA

Riyadh, August 21, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – AROYA Cruises, the first Arab cruise line operated by Cruise Saudi, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has expanded its operations into the Mediterranean Sea this summer, less than a year after its inaugural voyage in the Red Sea.

Since its debut on December 16, 2024, from Jeddah Islamic Port, AROYA has positioned itself as a floating resort, spanning 19 decks and accommodating 3,362 passengers across 1,678 cabins and suites designed to reflect Saudi hospitality and luxury living.

The summer expansion began on June 28 from Galataport in Istanbul, with itineraries covering Athens, Mykonos, Souda Bay, Bodrum, and Alexandria. Sailings will continue through mid-September 2025 on six- to seven-night routes across Türkiye, Greece, and Egypt.

The ship highlights Saudi identity through its cultural design and services, including 12 restaurants and 17 cafés offering global cuisine with authentic Saudi flavors. As part of a partnership with the Culinary Arts Commission, AROYA features Irth, the first Saudi restaurant at sea, and serves camel milk products from “Noug” in collaboration with Sawani.

Passengers enjoy 20 entertainment and leisure facilities, including the 1,018-seat AROYA Theater, a shopping district inspired by traditional souqs, sports courts, wellness centers, and the largest kids’ area on any cruise ship at 1,800 square meters. Exclusive offerings include the Khuzama area with 145 suites and nine villas, the largest measuring 395 square meters with dedicated services. Prayer areas and women-only spa hours further reflect Saudi social and cultural values.

AROYA Cruises’ entry into the Mediterranean underscores the Kingdom’s ambition to strengthen its global presence in marine tourism and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and build world-class tourism infrastructure.