At Cruise Saudi, our work begins with a simple belief: the coastline of Saudi Arabia holds stories the world has yet to discover. Our mission is to open these shores to global travelers in a way that is welcoming, sustainable, and reflective of the Kingdom’s rich heritage. Through partnership and shared ambition, we are shaping a new chapter in global cruising, one that places the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf among the world’s most inspiring and meaningful cruise destinations.
Established in 2021 as a wholly owned Public Investment Fund company, Cruise Saudi sits at the heart of Vision 2030’s tourism transformation. Our role is to build the foundations of a complete cruise ecosystem from port infrastructure and passenger services to destination experiences that connect guests to the cultural, natural, and human warmth of Saudi Arabia. This work isn’t just about travel; it contributes directly to economic diversification and the creation of opportunities for communities, supporting an estimated 50,000 direct and indirect jobs in the years ahead.
In just six seasons, we have welcomed more than 600,000 passengers representing 129 nationalities. Today, five operational gateways including Jeddah, Yanbu, Dammam, Baridi Island, and Saba Beach on Jabal Al-Sabaya offer seamless access to UNESCO World Heritage sites, coastal retreats, and landscapes that remain untouched and authentic. These are places where tradition and nature meet, not recreated, not curated, simply discovered.
As we continue to develop the region’s cruise offering, our approach is grounded in collaboration. We work alongside cruise lines, tourism operators, local businesses, and cultural partners to co-create experiences that feel meaningful and memorable. This includes developing shore excursions that highlight local craftsmanship and heritage, supporting operational needs at port, and aligning marketing to introduce Saudi’s story to the world with accuracy, respect, and warmth.
Our vision is clear and steady: by 2030, we aim to develop 10 world-class cruise gateways across the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, and by 2035, welcome 1.1 million cruise passenger visits annually. These goals are ambitious, but they are guided by real progress already underway and a commitment to long-term, sustainable growth ensuring that our coastlines remain an environmental and cultural asset for generations to come.
For cruise lines seeking to enrich winter deployments, diversify itineraries, or offer guests something truly new, Saudi Arabia provides depth and differentiation from coral-fringed islands and ancient ports to contemporary cities shaped by creativity and change. The journey is just beginning, yet the foundation is strong, operational, and ready.
We look forward to connecting with you throughout the International Cruise Summit. Together, we can shape a future of cruising that is more expansive, more connected, and more human.
Cruise Saudi – Your Gateway to Cruising Saudi.
