39 scheduled sailings through September 2027 | A major cruise ship, a distinctive Arab hospitality experience and new opportunities for regional tourism
Alexandria Port is strengthening its position on the Eastern Mediterranean cruise map with the launch of AROYA Cruises’ first winter season in the region. The initiative marks a significant step towards revitalising cruise activity at the port, expanding international connectivity and unlocking new opportunities for Egypt’s tourism economy.
The programme comprises 39 scheduled weekly calls until September 2027, connecting Alexandria with Istanbul and other destinations across selected itineraries. With passenger turnaround operations and homeport services, the initiative offers an opportunity to integrate Alexandria more closely into international cruise networks , A Floating Resort with an Arab Identity
At approximately 335 metres long, with a gross tonnage of around 151,000 and capacity for up to 3,362 passengers, AROYA combines the scale of a major international cruise ship with a distinctive Arabian hospitality concept.
Its onboard facilities include restaurants, cafés, entertainment venues, a large theatre, family attractions, a water park, sports and wellness facilities, alongside Saudi-inspired design and services tailored to regional cultural preferences. Operated by AROYA Cruises, part of Cruise Saudi, the vessel represents Saudi Arabia’s entry into the international cruise market with a dedicated Arab cruise brand.
The Mediterranean itineraries provide passengers with opportunities to discover the cultural and historical heritage of Egypt and Türkiye. In Alexandria, visitors can explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Citadel of Qaitbay and the city’s historic waterfront, with organised excursions offering access to Cairo Grand Museum and the Pyramids of Giza.
High-Level Participation Reflects Regional Cooperation
The launch ceremony brought together senior officials, diplomatic representatives and maritime and tourism-sector leaders from Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, highlighting the initiative’s regional significance.
Attendees included the Governor of Alexandria; the Ambassador of the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia to Egypt; the Ambassador of Türkiye to Egypt; the Chief Executive Officer of Cruise Saudi, wholly owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund; the Head of the Maritime Transport and Logistics Sector at Egypt’s Ministry of Transport; and representatives of the Alexandria Port Authority and the tourism sectors of the participating countries.
Their participation underscored the shared commitment to strengthening cruise connectivity, expanding tourism cooperation and creating new opportunities across maritime transport, hospitality and travel services.
From Cruise Calls to Greater Economic Value
The expansion of cruise operations offers Alexandria an opportunity to generate wider economic benefits through accommodation, ground transportation, shore excursions, restaurants, travel services and other activities associated with passenger movements.
Turnaround operations and homeport services can create additional demand for pre- and post-cruise stays, passenger transfers and local tourism experiences. Capturing this potential will depend on efficient port operations, coordinated visitor services, attractive excursion programmes and effective collaboration between public authorities, cruise operators and local businesses.
Alexandria’s Growing Mediterranean Role
AROYA’s new season creates a platform for deeper tourism cooperation between Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye while enhancing Alexandria’s visibility within international cruise itineraries.
With its strategic location, rich cultural heritage and access to Egypt’s principal historical attractions, Alexandria is well positioned to strengthen its role as both a cruise destination and a potential embarkation gateway.
The strategic opportunity is clear: to transform renewed cruise activity into sustained tourism growth, stronger regional partnerships and lasting economic value—reinforcing Alexandria Port’s position within the Eastern Mediterranean cruise industry.
