Cruise Saudi Announces Commercial Launch of ‘AROYA Cruises’

The ship can accommodate more than 3,362 passengers. SPA
The ship can accommodate more than 3,362 passengers. SPA
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Cruise Saudi Announces Commercial Launch of ‘AROYA Cruises’

The ship can accommodate more than 3,362 passengers. SPA
The ship can accommodate more than 3,362 passengers. SPA

Cruise Saudi, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) specializing in developing the cruise sector in the Kingdom, has announced the commercial launch of its cruise line "AROYA Cruises.”

“As the first Arabian cruise line, AROYA Cruises is proud to lead the way with its authentic Arabian experience offered to guests at sea and on land,” Cruise Saudi said in a statement.

“It also stands out for its unique design, which reflects Arabian generosity and Saudi Arabia's hospitality by providing exceptional experiences that focus on comfort and luxury for its guests,” it added.
AROYA Cruises is a 335-meter floating resort with 1,678 cabins, including balcony cabins overlooking the sea, as well as luxury suites and villas.

The ship can accommodate more than 3,362 passengers and includes 20 entertainment venues across 18 decks that provide shopping at AROYA's shops, performances in the 1,018-seat theater, and shows and movies for children.

AROYA Cruises also offers exclusive VIP experiences, with spacious and premium suites, outdoor lounges and exceptional dining experiences.

Tourist trips are scheduled in the Red Sea in December 2024, with visits to the AROYA Cruise's private island as well as destinations to Egypt and Jordan.



Dozens of Exotic Animals Seized at Turkish Border

A woman covers with an umbrella against the rain during a summer storm at Kadikoy ferry terminal in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
A woman covers with an umbrella against the rain during a summer storm at Kadikoy ferry terminal in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
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Dozens of Exotic Animals Seized at Turkish Border

A woman covers with an umbrella against the rain during a summer storm at Kadikoy ferry terminal in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
A woman covers with an umbrella against the rain during a summer storm at Kadikoy ferry terminal in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Turkish customs officials in the northwestern city of Edirne discovered dozens of exotic animals being smuggled into Türkiye from Greece, The Associated Press said.

State-run Anadolu Agency reported that the mid-sized sedan with Greek license plates was carrying three kangaroos, three alpacas and one Patagonian mara in the trunk, and 12 parrots and 23 flying squirrels inside the vehicle. Many of the animals are juveniles.

Photos from the scene show the larger animals bound and squeezed together in tight confinement, while the smaller ones were crowded in cages.

The private Demiroren News Agency identified the driver of the vehicle as Yuksel D., who was subsequently detained by authorities.

All the animals survived and will be delivered to the Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks.