Luxury Cruises Set Sail from Dubai and Abu Dhabi with AROYA’s 2026 Arabian Gulf Season

Saudi Arabia’s first Arabian cruise line, AROYA Cruises, has announced its first Arabian Gulf season, which will begin operating on 21 February 2026. This new seasonal offering introduces a series of exciting cruises across the Arabian Gulf, which allows travellers to discover the region through a completely different experience. AROYA Cruises, which Cruise Saudi launched, delivers passengers an authentic “Remarkably Arabian” cruising experience that fuses luxury with local hospitality and traditional cultural practices.

New Range of Voyages for Arabian Gulf Season

The 2026 Arabian Gulf season will feature a range of itineraries to suit different traveller preferences. These include two-night, three-night, four-night, five-night, six-night, and seven-night cruises. With departures from key Gulf cities, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dammam, and Muscat, the itineraries offer something for every type of traveller. Whether seeking a quick getaway or a longer exploration of the region’s coastlines and cultures, AROYA Cruises’ schedules provide greater flexibility and accessibility for all.

Exploring Iconic Gulf Destinations

The new season will bring passengers to iconic ports of call, including the historical city of Muscat in Oman, the stunning coastal Khasab, and the popular destinations of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha. A standout feature of these cruises is the inclusion of Sir Bani Yas Island, a pristine and secluded paradise that combines natural beauty with wildlife and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

For passengers, these carefully curated itineraries provide an opportunity to explore the Arabian Gulf in a way never before available, offering a unique combination of modern luxury and authentic local experiences. AROYA Cruises’ exclusive offerings include traditional performances, Arabian-inspired cuisine, and world-class entertainment onboard, immersing guests in the rich culture of the region.

Onboard Experience: “Remarkably Arabian” Hospitality

AROYA Cruises is focused on providing guests with an exceptional experience that feels distinctly Arabian, while still meeting international standards. The cruise line’s flagship vessel, the AROYA, features an impressive array of luxury amenities, including 12 restaurants, 17 lounges, and 20 entertainment venues. The ship is designed to offer guests a premium cruise experience, with 1,678 cabins and a variety of room types, including exclusive Khuzama suites for VIP guests. This ship is engineered to deliver a cruising experience that combines the best of both worlds, modern comforts with authentic Arabian hospitality.

Notable onboard experiences include culinary delights, with a Saudi restaurant at sea, Irth, and regional flavours prepared in collaboration with local chefs. The ship also features dedicated spaces for wellness and sports, including Blossom by AROYA, a state-of-the-art wellness and fitness area, as well as a large kids’ zone offering entertainment for all ages. Passengers can indulge in top-tier services while enjoying a variety of leisure activities during their journey.

Convenient Embarkation Points for Regional Travellers

AROYA Cruises is designed with regional accessibility in mind, offering multiple embarkation points in three countries across the Arabian Gulf: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. This approach makes it easier for regional travellers to join the cruise without the need to travel far, making AROYA Cruises the perfect choice for those seeking a convenient, luxurious vacation with the flexibility of multiple departure points.

This added flexibility not only makes it easier for passengers to embark on their dream cruise, but also positions AROYA Cruises as a key player in the emerging Gulf cruise market. It reflects the region’s growing interest in luxury cruising and tourism, particularly as the Saudi Vision 2030 plan sets out to diversify the country’s economy through tourism and hospitality.

A Focus on Regional Development and Community Impact

AROYA Cruises is part of the broader initiative by Cruise Saudi to develop the Kingdom’s cruise industry and establish the region as a premier global tourism and cruise destination. The Arabian Gulf season is expected to draw thousands of international tourists, contributing to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism infrastructure and the local economy. Additionally, this initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to promote sustainable tourism, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation across the Gulf states.

A New Era for Arabian Gulf Cruising

With its inaugural season in 2026, AROYA Cruises is set to revolutionise how travellers explore the Arabian Gulf. The combination of luxury, culture, and regional heritage makes AROYA a unique offering in the cruise industry, providing an unmatched experience for both regional and international visitors. As it embarks on its maiden voyages, AROYA is not only positioning itself as a leader in the Gulf cruise sector but is also contributing to the growth of tourism in Saudi Arabia and the wider Arabian Gulf region.

With various packages which provide onboard services and access to newly introduced locations, AROYA Cruises presents a unique experience that enables passengers to discover the Arabian Gulf’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The upcoming season will initiate a transformative period for both regional tourism and maritime operations which will enable tourists from different parts of the globe to discover the Arabian Gulf’s diverse cultural heritage through novel tourist experiences.

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