Aroya and Saudi Tourism launch football-themed land and sea package

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Aroya Cruises, Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and Spain-based Major Sports Cruise sign partnership

Saudi Arabia’s first cruise line, Aroya Cruises, has unveiled its maiden football-themed sailing centred on the Spanish Super Cup, combining the excitement of world-class football with the charm of Saudi culture and hospitality.

Set to take place in January 2026, the integrated land-and-sea experience marks the start of a partnership between Aroya Cruises, Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and Major Sports Cruise, a Spanish company renowned for luxury sports-themed voyages.

The collaboration aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing sports tourism offering and highlight the kingdom’s expanding cruise market.

Running from 8–11 January, the programme includes a three-night round-trip Red Sea sailing from Jeddah to Yanbu following the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals, paired with exclusive football-inspired hospitality packages onboard.

Aroya cruise ship accommodates up to 3,400 passengers

Life at sea will feature immersive activities such as FIFA gaming tournaments, live commentary sessions, creative workshops and wellness experiences infused with Saudi hospitality.

Before embarking, guests will explore Jeddah through curated excursions created by STA in collaboration with destination management companies and European tour operators.

Highlights include guided tours of historic Al Balad, Jeddah’s Unesco World Heritage Site, and the Jeddah waterfront and corniche, followed by attendance at the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals on 7-8 January featuring Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid and Athletic Club.

The sailing concludes back in Jeddah on 11 January with the Spanish Super Cup Final, where guests will enjoy VIP access to the championship match, exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with football legends and fan celebrations that unite sport, culture and Saudi hospitality.

Unesco World Heritage Site of Al Balad, Jeddah's old quarter

Joerg Rudolph, President of Aroya Cruises, said the initiative represents a “major step” in connecting global audiences with Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism landscape.

Hazim Al-Hazmi, STA’s President for Europe and the Americas, added that the programme would reveal “the authentic Heart of Arabia, where tradition meets excitement in truly unforgettable ways.”

Tailored travel packages combining the Spanish Super Cup experience with a luxury Red Sea voyage will be available for international and regional travellers.

This launch follows the unveiling of a faith-based, 13-night itinerary from Malaysia to Jeddah, from Aroya Cruises, which is the world’s first halal-certified cruise.

Aroya Cruises opens bookings for debut Arabian Gulf sailings

Introducing the 2025 Cruise Insight Report

Aroya accommodates up to 3,400 guests across 19 decks, offering 1,678 cabins, including more than 1,000 balcony cabins and luxury Khuzama suites.

Onboard amenities include spas, a multi-level kids’ zone, entertainment options including a theatre and immersive VR attractions, and 12 diverse restaurants. Dining highlights include authentic Saudi fare at IRTH, the first Saudi restaurant at sea, plus speciality venues serving Italian, Lebanese and seafood cuisine, and a unique Sea Shisha experience.

More cruise lines are adding Middle East ports to their itineraries as cruise tourism in the region is on the rise and set to be further accelerated by Connections Cruise Arabia. The game-changing annual event, launched in September 2025, will bring together 300 senior cruise leaders and stakeholders in September 2026 to shape the future of the sector in the region.

For more information, visit aroya.com/en