Departure procedures complete for maiden voyage of Saudi cruise ship AROYA
The Saudi cruise ship AROYA has embarked on its inaugural journey, marking a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s tourism sector. The General Directorate of Passports has successfully completed all departure procedures for this first international voyage. AROYA is now sailing from Jeddah Islamic Port to Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt. This event highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing its tourism offerings as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. With modern facilities and a focus on passenger experience, AROYA aims to attract both local and international travelers.
Modern Facilities and Luxurious Amenities
The AROYA cruise ship is designed to provide an exceptional experience for its passengers. It boasts a wide array of world-class facilities that cater to various interests and preferences. One of the standout features is the souq-inspired shopping district, which is the largest retail area ever constructed on a cruise ship. This unique shopping experience allows passengers to explore a variety of shops and boutiques while enjoying the sea breeze.
In addition to shopping, AROYA offers luxurious spa facilities and a wellness center, ensuring that guests can unwind and rejuvenate during their journey. The ship also features 29 restaurants, lounges, and cafés, providing diverse dining options that cater to different tastes. For entertainment, AROYA is equipped with 20 venues, offering everything from live performances to movie screenings. Families will appreciate the ship’s expansive children’s play area, one of the largest at sea, designed to keep young travelers engaged and entertained.
The infrastructure and logistics at Jeddah Islamic Port have been modernized to accommodate large cruise ships like AROYA. This upgrade ensures that passengers receive efficient and high-quality services from the moment they arrive at the port. The General Directorate of Passports has mobilized its resources to support travelers, utilizing advanced technical devices and qualified personnel to enhance the overall experience.
A New Era for Saudi Tourism
The launch of AROYA represents a new chapter for Cruise Saudi and the broader tourism landscape in Saudi Arabia. Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, expressed his excitement about this milestone. He noted that the company was established just two years ago and has already achieved significant progress by introducing its first owned ship. This achievement aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and promote tourism as a key sector.
Clasen emphasized the hard work and dedication of the Cruise Saudi team in bringing AROYA to fruition. He believes that this cruise line will offer a unique experience for local, regional, and international guests. The introduction of AROYA is expected to attract more tourists to Saudi Arabia, showcasing the country’s rich culture and natural beauty. As the cruise industry continues to grow, AROYA will play a crucial role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for cruise travelers.
With its luxurious amenities and commitment to exceptional service, AROYA is set to redefine the cruise experience in the region. As more travelers seek unique and memorable experiences, the ship’s inaugural voyage is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for Saudi tourism.
