Tuba Ongun
10 October 2024•Update: 10 October 2024
PERTH, Australia
In a bold move that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Cruise Saudi is set to launch the Mediterranean’s first cruise line specifically tailored to Arabian guests, CEO Lars Clasen told Anadolu.
Aroya Cruise, which will set sail for the Mediterranean next summer, represents a significant expansion for the company and an exciting development for Arabian travelers, as it will be focusing on their experience, something that the global cruise market hasn’t seen before, Clasen said.
"The global cruise market so far is pretty much focused on travelers from Europe, from North America, open to everyone, but usually the successful products are catering to a special defined geography. We are adding a product tailor-made to the Arabian market, so to the preference and likings of Arabian guests, which has not been there before," he said.
This, he said, sets them apart from other cruise operators, as the company is concentrating on delivering a distinctly Arabian product.
Cruise Saudi’s growth and Aroya's launch is a part of the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 strategy aimed at diversifying its economy by strengthening its tourism sector.
Clasen stressed that Cruise Saudi is not just catering to the Arabian market through its AROYA Cruises; it is also actively working to attract international cruise lines to Saudi ports.
"We are operating three ports—Jeddah, Yanbu and Dammam—and are in discussions with several international cruise lines,” Clasen said, adding that Saudi Arabia’s pristine Red Sea coast and rich cultural heritage offer a unique draw for international tourists.
Highlighting that Saudi Arabia’s investment in infrastructure has been a key enabler of this vision, Clasen said Cruise Saudi, in close collaboration with government entities like Mawani (Saudi Ports Authority) and the Saudi Tourism Authority, is developing ports and shore excursion experiences that highlight the Kingdom’s rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes.
With the development of more ports and tourist attractions, Cruise Saudi hopes to attract a growing number of international cruise tourists.
While the Kingdom’s vision to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030 is ambitious, Clasen noted that Cruise Saudi’s portion of this target is a small but vital component.
1.3 million international visitors target by 2035
The company aims to bring over 1.3 million international cruise guests to the country by 2035, he said, adding: "Cruise tourists tend to spend more than the average tourist, so while the numbers may seem modest, their economic impact is significant."
Clasen highlighted the time-intensive nature of the cruise industry, where developing new ports and infrastructure requires long-term planning and investment.
"Everything in cruise has a long lead time—it’s a capital-intensive industry," he said.
One of the major challenges Cruise Saudi faces is ensuring a seamless immigration process for cruise guests, particularly as Saudi Arabia opens its doors wider to international tourism.
Clasen emphasized the importance of seamless immigration procedures to attract more cruise lines.
"We are working closely with authorities to improve the immigration experience, potentially using AI to support faster clearance for cruise passengers," he said, highlighting that a smooth and efficient process is critical to attracting more visitors.
Besides its international ambitions, Cruise Saudi is also focused on promoting cruise travel within the Kingdom.
AROYA Cruises, which will be deployed mainly in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, will offer a premium cruise experience for more than 3,000 guests.
Reflecting on Saudi Arabia’s broader transformation, Clasen said the cruise industry is in perfect sync with the nation’s evolving image.
"Cruise lines around the world are fascinated by what’s happening in Saudi Arabia. As a growing market with stunning new destinations, Saudi is the perfect addition to global cruise itineraries," he said.
