Tourexpi
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.
Image
Credit: © AA
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