Tag Archives: Cruise Saudi

The 100% PIF-owned company Cruise Saudi has announced that it has appointed VIKAND, the global leader in maritime healthcare, to provide a comprehensive and full-scale medical management solution for AROYA Cruises, the first cruise line to be designed with Arabian preferences at its heart. The engagement spans from pre-launch support services, biomedical device specification and procurement as well as formulary supply, to ongoing maritime healthcare support through VIKAND’s all-inclusive, proactive medical management services. AROYA Cruises will provide guests with authentic Arabian experiences that celebrate Saudi’s rich cultural heritage and signature hospitality, while ensuring consistent high safety and quality standards supported by VIKAND. The ship is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment to tailor all amenities to the highest standard in line with the taste of Arabian passengers. With 19 decks and 1,682 elegant cabins, this grand ship will redefine Arabian holidays and will set sail from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in 2024. The partnership agreement was formalized with a signing ceremony, during which Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, said, “We are delighted to be collaborating with VIKAND. Our clients expect a premium service, and we were impressed with their experience in delivering proactive health and wellness to guests and crew. It is important that our AROYA Cruises guests feel safe and can turn to trusted medical professionals should they feel unwell during a voyage.” VIKAND medical management is an all-inclusive, proactive and modular approach to onboard health and wellness inspired by the company’s deeply held values. It begins with a pre-launch analysis of biomedical equipment and onboard facilities to ensure the vessel meets all flag state and American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) requirements. VIKAND has deep experience in launching vessels, …

Cruise Saudi and Al Madinah Region Development Authority signed an MoU to foster economic development in historic Al Madinah Region. This will develop the region and expand facilities to accommodate an increased number of tourists, with a focus on social impact both locally and across Saudi, in line with Vision 2030. Both Al Madinah Region Development Authority and Cruise Saudi share the vision to advance and aid access to Al Madinah, developing the region and expanding facilities to accommodate an increased number of tourists. As part of the agreement, both parties will utilize their capabilities and experiences to achieve their shared vision. The MoU signing took place at this year’s Saudi Tourism Forum in Riyadh, the annual event which promotes Saudi as a tourist destination, and which provided the perfect backdrop for both parties to mark their intent to enhance the tourism offering in the region of Al Madinah. Madinah is the second holiest city in Islam, with beautiful architecture in abundance, such as the vast Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque with its striking green dome dominating the skyline, sites of historic interest such as the The Ghars Well (also known as Bir Ghars) and Mount Uhud which was the site of the second battle between the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the polytheists of his tribe of Quraysh, and impressive natural landmarks of farms and valleys. The Al Madinah region has a multitude of historic wonders to explore, as well as modern sights including the coastal city of Yanbu. Cruise Saudi will facilitate cruise passengers’ visits to the region via the Red Sea. Mashhoor Baeshen, Executive Director, Destinations Development & Management at Cruise Saudi said “Unique in history and culture, Al Madinah …

Cruise Saudi has renewed its ongoing collaboration with Discover Saudi. Following a highly successful third season for Cruise Saudi, which included Discover Saudi providing unique and memorable shore excursions to over 5,200 cruise passengers in the Two Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, this collaboration will continue to provide a seamless and unforgettable journey with the highest standards for regional and international visitors. With the shared vision to promote domestic tourism in Saudi and enrich the nation’s growth as an international cruising destination, Discover Saudi’s shore excursion packages will offer Cruise Saudi’s passengers an authentic Saudi experience, enabling visitors to explore The Two Holy Cities’ rich history, culture, heritage and nature. Lars Clasen, Chief Executive Officer at Cruise Saudi said: “As we approach season four, we are delighted to renew our partnership with Discover Saudi, so that we can continue to ensure our guests experience the very best of what Saudi has to offer. These extraordinary experiences, created in collaboration with partners such as Discover Saudi, are a crucial part of Cruise Saudi’s attractive offering to both cruise lines and travellers alike, it is also in line with our mandate to develop a comprehensive cruising ecosystem in Saudi and promote Saudi as a distinct global cruise destination.” Fahad Alobailan, Chief Tourism Officer at Almosafer, said: “We are excited to continue to build on our relationship with Cruise Saudi. Saudi has a plethora of incredible cultural, natural, historical and religious attractions that are drawing an increasing number of international tourists. As a leading integrated Destination Management Company, our local knowledge and passion for travel and tourism will provide an immersive and authentic experience for visitors and further fuel this upward growth …

Cruise Saudi welcomed SH Diana to Saudi Arabia as part of her Maiden Voyage with inaugural calls to Yanbu, Baridi Island and Jeddah. SH Diana anchored at sea, just off Baridi Island, offering a new expedition experience with pristine beaches and coral reefs. Continuing her journey along the Red Sea coast, the ship made a second maiden call in Saudi to Jeddah, where passengers explored the streets of Al Balad – a UNESCO World Heritage recognized Hijazi style historic district, with its traditional buildings and authentic shops and cafes. Lars Clasen, CEO at Cruise Saudi said, “We were honoured to welcome Swan Hellenic’s cruise ship, SH Diana to Saudi for the first time, in what was a milestone visit for Cruise Saudi. We are proud to be constantly expanding our programme of onshore experiences to provide such an authentic insight into Saudi culture for our guests.” Kai Ukkonen, Captain of SH Diana said, “It’s incredibly exciting to have incorporated this Maiden Voyage to Saudi and to offer this new destination to our passengers. Our goal is to always create unforgettable moments for our guests, so it was a top priority to work with Cruise Saudi on creating a collection of unique and curated adventures for a truly immersive experience.”

Cruise Saudi announced its investment in world-leading tech organisations for its pioneering owned cruise line AROYA Cruises, part of its visionary ambition to revolutionise the Saudi tourism industry and guide Saudi into the future, in line with Vision 2030. Cruise Saudi’s strategic partnerships for its phase I of technology stack development for Aroya Cruises including Monitor Deloitte, Alibaba Cloud SA, theICEway, SourceToad, Otalio, and Versonix Seaware form a crucial part of Cruise Saudi’s commitment to creating a seamless passenger experience, from booking to the boarding process, and beyond. The unrivalled expertise of the Information Technology and Digitisation team at Cruise Saudi to craft the technology stack, coupled with an insatiable drive for innovation and market disruption in cruise line technologies, underscores the project’s visionary approach. Meanwhile, the blend of both luxury and groundbreaking technology sets AROYA Cruises apart as a beacon of innovation, charting a fresh course for Arabian travel experiences. A global powerhouse in strategy and consultancy, Monitor Deloitte will be at the vanguard of project management, intricately weaving a data and digital strategy to ensure every technological decision is foresight driven. As a homegrown Saudi enterprise, Alibaba Cloud Saudi Arabia will be laying the digital foundation for AROYA Cruises, epitomising the zenith of security, reliability, and swift digital interactions. Meanwhile theICEway is tasked with amalgamating AROYA’s diverse technological realms into a seamless and cohesive digital ecosystem, ensuring a harmonious experience for every guest and crew member. Providing features for passengers, such as an interactive ship map, daily itineraries, and reservations for shore excursions, dining, and spa treatments, Sourcetoad’s guest-centric digital concierge is poised to be the central hub of onboard connectivity and engagement. Alongside this, Otalio’s Ship Property Management System …

This latest announcement forms part of Cruise Saudi’s wider strategy to partner with outstanding sector-leading vendors to ensure that AROYA Cruises offers the highest standard of services and facilities. Supplying more than 50 airlines, operating as wholesalers and retailers in over 90 countries, as well as supplying or operating shops onboard 240 cruise ships and ferries, Gebr. Heinemann is a giant in the travel retail sector. Forming a crucial part of the exceptional offering onboard AROYA Cruises, Gebr. Heinemann will work directly with the world’s best-known luxury brands and its wide range of products extends from perfume and cosmetics to confectionery, fashion, accessories, watches, and jewellery. Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, said: “AROYA Cruises will provide our passengers with joyful and memorable premium experiences, and a crucial part of this is the retail offering onboard. We are thrilled to be collaborating exclusively with Gebr. Heineman to deliver such an exceptional high-end retail offering.” Kerstin Schepers, Managing Director for the Cruise Business at Gebr. Heinemann SE & Co. KG: “We are very excited to be on board the AROYA Cruises. On its first ship we want to inspire travelers with our impressive employees and our spectacular assortment. We promise unforgettable shopping experiences to the guests.” The first of its kind, AROYA Cruises will aim to provide experiences and services specifically designed to embrace Arabian preferences, with a vision to reinvent the meaning of holidays in Saudi. The launch of AROYA Cruises marks a significant step in providing new holiday options for Saudi-nationals, expatriates, and regional guests. Due to set sail in 2024, AROYA Cruises will also form a part of Cruise Saudi’s wider goal to provide 50,000 direct and indirect …

The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu (RCJY), represented by represented by Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries (JCPDI), and Cruise Saudi signed an MoU with a shared objective to develop the accessibility and the experiences in this region on a local, regional, and international level. RCJY is underway with bold ambitions to develop JCPDI as an important entry point for international and domestic tourists thanks to its infrastructure and strategic location, effectively positioning the city as the main destinations gateway of Saudi Arabia’s southern region, with Cruise Saudi playing a crucial role in acting as a conduit between Jazan and the cruise lines. From knowledge transfer to aligning on mutually beneficial opportunities, the two entities a joint vision based on destination establishment and positive local impact. The event, which took place at Grand Millennium Jazan Hotel, welcomed His Royal Highness Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz bin Mohammad bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Jazan region, His Excellency the President of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, Eng. Khaled Al-Salem, Acting CEO of Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries, Dr Hussain bin Yahya Fadhli, leaders of the tourism sector, along with a key delegation from Cruise Saudi including Managing Director, Fawaz Farooqui and CEO, Lars Clasen. Fawaz Farooqui addressed the attendees in a speech which emphasized Cruise Saudi’s enthusiasm to collaborate with RCJY in the aligned vision to create a sea gate which welcomes international tourists to explore the Southern Region as part of the Saudi cruising ecosystem. With pristine beaches, azure seas, verdant forests, and craggy mountain peaks, Jazan is a hidden gem nestled on the tip of Saudi’s Red Sea coast. Stretching over 200 kilometres along the sparkling …

Cruise Saudi announces the launch of its owned cruise line, AROYA Cruises. AROYA Cruises will offer Saudi nationals, expatriates, and regional guests a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of Saudi from the sea. With a commitment to showcasing Arabian experiences, AROYA Cruises will reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, providing an immersive journey, designed and tailored to reflect its brand values of inspiration, enrichment, generosity and respect. AROYA Cruises is committed to an exceptional passenger experience and will offer the highest standard of service, facilities and shore excursion programme culminating in a unique offering in the region. “This momentous step marks a historical milestone in Cruise Saudi’s ambitious strategy to create a premium cruise ecosystem in Saudi, in line with Vision 2030.” quotes Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi. “AROYA Cruises will be operating as an autonomous brand within the Cruise Saudi portfolio, aiming to provide experiences and services specifically designed to embrace Arabian preferences.” The launch of AROYA Cruises’ will be led by Ghassan Khan. The brand will be managed as a separate business unit supporting the fulfilment of Cruise Saudi’s strategic goals of welcoming 1.3 million cruise visitors by 2035 and providing 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Ghassan Khan quotes: “This is an extremely exciting time. It is a privilege to bring this cruise line to launch as a core element of Saudi’s development as an international cruising destination.” AROYA Cruises itineraries and packages are currently under development and will be announced at its commercial launch to be held in the coming months.    

Cruise Saudi  is committed to creating 50,000 direct and indirect jobs in Saudi by 2035, which will benefit the local workforce. In line with this, Cruise Saudi was keen to participate in the Ministry of Tourism’s first two-day Tourism Job Fair, with the aim of recruiting Saudi talents in the rapidly growing cruise tourism sector. Cruise Saudi Chief Human Capital Officer Ayman AlGhamdi said: “As we are developing a new industry that supports the Saudi Tourism sector, we believe in investing in the local community and its cadres. With a Saudization rate of 71 per cent, we are proud of our local talents who have proven their capabilities, qualifications and fast development in a wide range of cruise related fields.” Additionally, Cruise Saudi has outperformed the female employment goals outlined in Vision 2030, with their participation in the workforce now reaching 32 per cent, ahead of the 2030 target of 30 per cent. Saudi tourism is currently undergoing a massive transformation with a focus on long-term, sustainable growth. Under plans set out in Vision 2030, tourism will become an important tributary for national economy. Deputy Minister of Tourism Human Capabilities Development Mohamed Bushnaq said: “This forum comes at a pivotal moment, as Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is undergoing substantial development. Having transformed into a regulated industry backed by regulations, systems, projects, and programs, it is striving to become one of the most important pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. The ultimate aim is to contribute to the diversification and prosperity of the national economy. “We are here today, steadfastly continuing our journey to provide more opportunities for this generous nation by launching the first tourism employment forum both in-person and through …

PIF-owned Cruise Saudi has welcomed MS Amadea to Saudi waters for the first time. More than 400 international passengers experienced Saudi’s unique history, natural wonders and warm and welcoming hospitality. MS Amadea is operated by German-based travel agency Phoenix Reisen. The stop in Jeddah is part of a 150-day worldwide itinerary, with the ship concluding its voyage in Nice on 22nd May 2023. During its maiden call to Jeddah, a plaque and key exchange ceremony was held with the Cruise Saudi team and the captain of MS Amadea. After Jeddah, the ship travelled further along the Red Sea to Hurghada, Egypt, and continued to Nice for the end of the trip. Commenting on MS Amadea’s visit, Cruise Saudi Director, Port, Terminal & Asset Operations, Serafin Blazquez, said: “Relationships with global cruise liners, travel agents and tour operators are hugely important to our strategy in growing Saudi as a tourism destination, and we’re thrilled to have partnered with MS Amadea in welcoming new travellers to experience all that Saudi has to offer.” MS Amadea Captain Martin Rittig said: “It was a pleasure to visit Saudi for the first time. We received excellent feedback from our passengers and were particularly impressed by the enthusiasm shown by all parties. ” “During the traditional plaque exchange ceremony, you could really feel the passion and motivation from the team. Based on this first experience, we are really looking forward to coming back and to watch Saudi grow as a cruise destination.” Launched in 2021, Cruise Saudi was created to develop the infrastructure and services required to scale a full-suite cruise market in Saudi Arabia. The company is responsible for the development and operation of cruise berths and …