Cruise Saudi, a 100 percent Public Investment Fund owned business, responsible for the creation and development of the cruise industry in the Kingdom, has announced the commercial launch of its owned cruise line, AROYA Cruises, with trips now available to purchase via its website.

As the first Arabian cruise line, AROYA Cruises is leading the way offering remarkably Arabian experiences for guests at sea and onshore. Pioneering in its design, AROYA Cruises reflects Arabian generosity and Saudi Arabia’s famous “hafawa” (hospitality), providing a unique experience with passenger comfort at its heart.

With the ability to accommodate 3,362 passengers, AROYA Cruises is a floating resort, 335 meters in length, with 1,678 cabins, including stunning balcony and sea view cabins, suites, and villas. The entertainment concept has been curated to offer activities for all passenger groups. The ship has 20 entertainment venues across 18 decks that will allow passengers to indulge in an array of experiences, including shopping in the Souq AROYA retail area, and enjoy performances in the 1,018-seater AROYA Theater, which will captivate guests with headline entertainment, movies, and dedicated shows for children. Families can connect in the Atrium Area, which will host “Gathering Hubs” and “Variety Acts,” and enjoy the 1,858-square-meter “kids zone,” with a splash area equipped with water slides.

For those looking to relax and unwind whilst onboard, the “Blossom by AROYA” spa will have all passenger wellness needs covered. With a focus on immersion of the five senses — sound, sight, taste, aroma and touch — the facilities include a thermal suite, snow room, relaxation room, and treatment room, as well as a beauty clinic, beauty salon, men’s barbers and gym.

With five complimentary restaurants, 11 specialty restaurants, and 12 cafés and lounges, Aroya offers a wide variety of F&B options from across the globe, spanning Lebanese, Italian and Asian. Amongst these dining outlets is IRTH, the first Saudi restaurant at sea, featuring traditional Arabian dining.

Dr. Joerg Rudolph, president of AROYA Cruises, said: “The launch of our cruise line to commercial markets is an important milestone for both AROYA Cruises, and for the tourism landscape in Saudi. We are thrilled that the public can now book sailings with us as we strive to reinvent the meaning of holidays in Arabia. We have been steadfast in our mission to create a ‘Remarkably Arabian’ cruise line offering for guests at sea and onshore, commercially and sustainably, and we look forward to sharing this with our passengers.”

For an elevated offering, the AROYA VIP package provides exclusive designated areas for a premium experience. With spacious and unique accommodation, outdoor lounges and exceptional dining, the AROYA exclusive experience provides the very best amenities and services for guests.

With inaugural sailings scheduled in the Red Sea for December 2024, itineraries will include time at the Cruise Saudi-owned private island, as well as visits to major destinations along the Red Sea, including Egypt and Jordan.

Cabins fares start from SR558 ($150) per person, per night. 

Saudi Awwal Bank, one of the leading banks in the Kingdom, inaugurated its newest integrated branch in the SAB Tower. The inauguration was held in the presence of Lubna Olayan, chairman of the board of directors, and members of the board and the executive management.
This new integrated branch signifies SAB’s strategy in enhancing customer experience in the Kingdom and reiterates its commitment to providing distinguished banking services for its retail customers, and small and medium enterprises, in addition to investment services.
Bandar Al-Gheshayan, chief wealth and personal banking officer at SAB, said: “We are pleased to open our new branch, which comes in line with our commitment to serving our customers with unparalleled dedication and excellence.”
He added: “This is part of our vision to become the bank of choice that offers innovative financial solutions, and our ongoing efforts to continue building strong and sustainable relationships with our customers and partners.”
The bank continues to enhance its efforts toward developing retail and corporate banking services, aiming to provide a comprehensive range of financial and banking solutions that meet the diverse needs of its clients. Last year, SAB inaugurated its new headquarters — the SAB Tower, which has been awarded the SmartScore Platinum and LEED Gold certifications.
SAB is one of the largest banks in the Kingdom and traces its origins in Saudi Arabia to more than 90 years, during which time it has been an active partner supporting the Kingdom’s economic growth and social development.
SAB offers integrated financial and banking services, including corporate banking, investment, private banking, and treasury.
The bank’s paid-up capital is SR20.5 billion, after the legal merger with Alawwal Bank on March 14, 2021, when it was legally known as the Saudi British Bank. SAB operates under the supervision of the Saudi Central Bank, and is a partner of the HSBC Group.