$1 Trillion Tourism Investment Fuels Saudi Cruise Tourism Expansion
Cruising the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia is no longer a distant idea. Ships are sailing from Jeddah. Ports are open. Islands once known only to locals are welcoming international travelers with luxury resorts, coral-lined beaches, and curated itineraries. With Cruise Saudi leading the charge, the Kingdom is turning its 1,600-kilometer coastline into a world-class destination. One that blends nature, heritage, and hospitality into a new kind of sea-based experience.
Cruise Saudi Anchors Red Sea Growth with Integrated Port Strategy
Backed by nearly $1 trillion in tourism investments, the Kingdom is rapidly diversifying its offerings beyond religious and cultural tourism. The launch of Cruise Saudi in 2021 marked a pivotal moment, signaling the country’s intent to become a global cruise destination and unlock the economic potential of its Red Sea coastline.
Headquartered in Jeddah, Cruise Saudi is building a strategic bridge between sea and land operations. By developing cruise ports and terminals across multiple Saudi cities, the company is laying the groundwork for a seamless visitor experience. This infrastructure push is creating immersive journeys that connect travelers to Saudi heritage, landscapes, and hospitality. The Red Sea’s pristine waters and proximity to UNESCO sites make it a natural magnet for cruise itineraries.
Saudi Cruise Tourism Supports Non-Oil GDP Goals of SAR 1.2 Trillion
Cruise Saudi’s launch aligns with the Public Investment Fund’s 2021–2025 strategy to contribute SAR 1.2 trillion to non-oil GDP. As part of this broader economic diversification, Saudi Cruise Tourism is positioned to deliver medium- and long-term returns by activating underutilized coastal assets. The cruise sector’s growth supports job creation, local enterprise development, and regional connectivity; the key metrics in the Kingdom’s non-oil performance targets.
30 Million Tourists in 2024 Signal Rising Demand for Sea-Based Experiences
Saudi Arabia welcomed a record 30 million international tourists in 2024, up from 27.5 million in 2023. A clear sign of growing global interest in the Kingdom’s evolving tourism landscape. The Saudi Arabia’s overall Travel & Tourism market was valued at USD 53.87 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 100.23 billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 10.90%. While religious tourism remains dominant, the rise of entertainment, adventure, and cultural travel is expanding the visitor profile. Saudi Cruise Tourism taps into this momentum by offering curated sea journeys that blend leisure with discovery, an attractive proposition for both regional and international travelers.
Red Sea Islands Transform into Global Cruise Destinations
The Red Sea’s magnetic charm is now matched by its accessibility. Islands once known only to locals like Ummahat, Sheybarah, and Shura, are becoming international cruise stops, offering travelers a blend of untouched nature and refined hospitality. From solar-powered pods at Shebara Resort to adaptive diving centers at Nujuma by Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Saudi Cruise Tourism is redefining luxury as inclusive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in place. These destinations invite guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with the rhythm of the sea.
AROYA Cruises and Boutique Lines Expand Red Sea Itineraries
Saudi Arabia’s own AROYA Cruises now sails from Jeddah to neighboring countries and private islands, with three-night packages starting at SAR 1,535 per person. International lines like MSC and boutique operators are also anchoring in Saudi ports, offering access to ancient ruins, coral reefs, and golden shores. Whether aboard a superyacht or a smaller vessel navigating quiet channels, Saudi Cruise Tourism is crafting experiences that blend Arabian hospitality with world-class service, making the Red Sea not just a route, but a destination.
Also Read: Saudi Cruise Tourism Global Expansion: AROYA Charts 5-Region Growth
FAQ: Saudi Cruise Tourism and the Red Sea Experience
1. What is Saudi Cruise Tourism and why is it growing?
Saudi Cruise Tourism refers to the Kingdom’s strategic development of cruise travel along its Red Sea coastline. It’s growing rapidly due to Vision 2030 investments, improved infrastructure, and rising global interest in Saudi Arabia’s natural and cultural destinations.
2. How many international tourists visited Saudi Arabia in 2024?
In 2024, Saudi Arabia welcomed a record 30 million international tourists, up from 27.5 million in 2023. This surge reflects the success of tourism initiatives including cruise development.
3. What are the starting prices for Red Sea cruises?
AROYA Cruises offers three-night packages starting at SAR 1,535 per person. These include cabin accommodations, meals, and curated itineraries to islands and coastal cities.
4. Which cruise lines operate in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia hosts both domestic and international cruise lines. AROYA Cruises is the national operator, while MSC and boutique cruise companies also sail from Jeddah to destinations like AlUla, Egypt, and Jordan.
5. What are some top Red Sea cruise destinations?
Popular stops include Ummahat Islands, Sheybarah, Shura, Sindalah, and the Bayadah Islands. These offer snorkeling, diving, luxury stays, and cultural experiences in pristine natural settings.
6. Is Saudi Cruise Tourism environmentally sustainable?
Yes. Cruise Saudi and Red Sea Global prioritize sustainability through solar-powered resorts, coral-safe infrastructure, and marine conservation. The national strategy covers over 186,000 km² of protected land and sea.
7. Can travelers with disabilities enjoy Red Sea cruises?
Absolutely. Resorts like Nujuma by Ritz-Carlton Reserve offer adaptive scuba diving and inclusive experiences, ensuring accessibility for all travelers.
8. What kind of activities are available on a Red Sea cruise?
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, e-foiling, fishing, cultural tours, and luxury yacht charters. The Red Sea’s calm waters make it ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
9. Where do most cruises depart from?
Jeddah is the main departure point for Saudi Cruise Tourism, with additional access from Yanbu, Umluj, and NEOM’s Sindalah Island.
10. How does cruise tourism support Saudi Arabia’s economy?
Cruise tourism contributes to the SAR 1.2 trillion non-oil GDP target by creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and attracting foreign investment in hospitality and infrastructure.
