AROYA Cruises makes waves in the Arabian Gulf

• The cruise line offers a 'Remarkably Arabian' experience exploring destinations like Dubai, Dammam, Doha and Abu Dhabi

• Short, two-night expeditions and longer seven night journeys can be booked by cruisers keen to explore the region

• On board is a programme of local entertainment as well as the first Saudi restaurant at sea

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AROYA Cruises makes waves in the Arabian Gulf - cruisers can enjoy the wonders of the Middle East on board Aroya

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A new Arabian cruise line has set sail this spring. AROYA Cruises by Cruise Saudi has unveiled an Arabian Gulf season that starts this month.

Two, three and four-night shorter itineraries and longer five, six and seven night journeys take cruisers through the Arabian Gulf.

Cruises take in the busy ports of Dubai, Dammam, Doha and Abu Dhabi, as well as the historic city of Muscat and the natural landscapes of Khasab in Oman (known as the ‘Norway of Arabia’ for its fjord-like coastline and rugged inlets, Khasab is also popular for its dolphins and 17th century fort) and Sir Bani Yas island, the United Arab Emirates’ largest natural island and a conservation hub.

The inaugural seven-night cruise sets sail on February 21, charting a course from Dubai and onto Khasab, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Doha and finishing at Sir Bani Yas island.

On board, cruisers can enjoy Saudi’s ‘hafawa’ hospitality, characterised by warmth and generosity and generally going beyond to make guests feel at home. A programme of local entertainment can be enjoyed, as well as the first Saudi restaurant at sea. Upgrade your trip to Khuzama VIP and enjoy exclusive suites and villas, private dining and a butler service.

AROYA Cruises launched in 2023 by Cruise Saudi, with a view to offering a ‘Remarkably Arabian’ experience. The cruise line's first ship, ARAYA, arrived in Jeddah in early 2025. 

“The launch of our Arabian Gulf season is a pivotal milestone in our commitment to developing a robust cruise ecosystem in the region,” said Lars Clasen, chief executive officer of Cruise Saudi. “This season marks a defining moment, positioning AROYA Cruises as the first cruise line to unite the Red Sea, Eastern Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf under a single, Arabian experience.”

According to Clasen, this expansion reinforces Saudi’s position as an emerging global hub in the cruise industry as well as highlighting the Arabian Gulf as a must-visit destination. 

“By offering multiple embarkation points, we are making it easier than ever for guests to explore the region’s treasures aboard a cruise line that is authentically Arabian at its core.”

AROYA’s Arabian Gulf Season runs until May 8, head online for more information.