Become a world class cruise port and cruise line operator driving the development of destination experiences to build a thriving cruise sector in Saudi.
To Support in the diversification of the Saudi economy and growth of the tourism sector, by becoming the bridge between land and sea, showcasing Saudi culture, heritage and natural wonders via partnerships with global cruise operators while providing best-in-class services, while focusing on innovation and sustainability.
Cruise Saudi was officially launched in 2021 to develop the infrastructure and services required to scale a full-suite cruise market in Saudi Arabia. The company is responsible for the port development and operation at key Saudi destinations as well as scaling cruise services, from marketing to Shorex coordination and vessel operations. Cruise Saudi is a 100% Public Investment Fund-owned business based in Jeddah and works hand in hand with ministries and regulatory authorities to build the offshore and onshore cruise ecosystem with the aim of positioning Saudi as a premier global cruise destination. Cruise Saudi has completed two successful seasons thus far; welcoming 50,000+ passengers and five major international cruise lines; and in the future, aims to attract more cruise lines and 1.3 million cruise passengers to experience Saudi via sea by 2035.
Cruise Saudi welcomes cruise lines from around the globe to include Saudi as a port of call on their itineraries and add exciting new destinations across Saudi that boast rich cultural heritage, history, and natural wonders.
Saudi is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites which have rarely or never been seen by international tourists and none of which have ever been featured on cruise itineraries before – and three of these are now accessible by sea: AlAhsa Oasis, Hegra Archaeological site in AlUla, and Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah.
There are multiple destinations available and different shore excursions that cater to all sorts of activities and interests for visitors, from culture and heritage to entertainment, adventure, and nature – all to ensure tourists have the complete Saudi experience.
The country is also home to many undiscovered treasures, from culinary encounters to unique immersive experiences in nature, including the beautiful Red Sea coral reefs – which can be seen by snorkeling or diving – as well as vibrant modern cities and colorful traditional Souqs. Saudi has something unique to offer to each and every one of its guests.
Chairman of the Board of Directors:
His Highness Prince Badr bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture of Saudi Arabia
Vice Chairman to the Board of Directors:
His Excellency Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transportation of Saudi Arabia
Board Members:
Yazeed A. Al-Humied, Deputy Governor, and Head of MENA Investments, Public Investment Fund (PIF)
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority
Raed Abdullah Ismail, Director of Direct Local Holdings of the Public Investment Fund (PIF)
Karl Holz, Advisor to PIF, Former President of Disney Cruise Line
Fawaz Farooqui, Managing Director of Cruise Saudi