AROYA Cruises Teams With Saudi Tourism to Create Sports Haven at Sea

Saudi Tourism Authority has transformed the kingdom into a global sports destination by hosting more than 100 major international sporting events over the last several years. A new partnership between AROYA Cruises, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and Major Sports Cruises will create an exceptional sports tourism experience that combines luxury cruising with premier football events. Their strategic collaboration strengthens Saudi Arabia’s growing sports tourism while highlighting the kingdom’s expanding cruise market.

The Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority’s innovative partnership will deliver a comprehensive program centered around the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah, January 2026. Guests will enjoy a three-night sailing adventure from Jeddah to Yanbu along with exclusive football hospitality packages. AROYA’s impressive vessel welcomes up to 3,400 guests across 19 decks with 1,678 cabins. The journey culminates with VIP experiences at the Spanish Super Cup Final on January 11, where guests can meet football legends. This program supports Vision 2030’s goal to establish Saudi Arabia as a global hub for sport, culture, and entertainment.

AROYA Cruises partners with Saudi Tourism Authority for 2026 Spanish Super Cup

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“Saudi has firmly established itself as a global events powerhouse, hosting over 100 major, international sporting events since 2018.” — Hazim Al-Hazmi, President of Europe and Americas Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority

AROYA Cruises, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), and Major Sports Cruises signed a formal partnership at STA headquarters in Riyadh on October 22, 2025. The collaborative effort will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s influence in global sports and tourism, especially when you have the Spanish Super Cup tournament in Jeddah in January 2026.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals are reflected in this strategic collaboration to make the Kingdom a global hub for sport, culture, and entertainment. The partnership connects international audiences with Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism through integrated travel centered around sport.

Hazim Al-Hazmi, President of Europe and Americas Markets at Saudi Tourism Authority, noted: “As we prepare to welcome fans to Jeddah for the Spanish Super Cup, we look forward to sharing the authentic Heart of Arabia where tradition meets excitement in truly unforgettable ways”.

Dr. Joerg Rudolph, President of AROYA Cruises, highlighted that the partnership creates “a journey that unites the excitement of Spanish football with the discovery of Saudi Arabia and the warmth of Arabian hospitality”.

The initiative combines elite sport with authentic Saudi hospitality and shows the Kingdom’s efforts to vary its sports-and-entertainment economy.

Jeddah hosts immersive pre-cruise experiences for European fans

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European travelers will start their football-themed cruise in the vibrant city of Jeddah. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has worked with local destination management companies and European tour operators to create exciting excursions.

Their trip starts with guided tours of Historic Al Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore ancient coral limestone buildings, traditional Roshan balconies, and cultural spots like Nassif House Museum. They will also find the bustling Souq Al Alawi, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest traditional markets that sells spices, textiles, and local crafts.

After these cultural visits, guests can enjoy Jeddah’s scenic Waterfront and Corniche. This area showcases iconic sculptures by prominent artists like Joan Miro and Henry Moore. The waterfront offers stunning views of Al Rahma Mosque that seems to float above the Red Sea during high tide.

The cultural experience ends with the Spanish Super Cup semifinals at the Alinma Stadium (also known as Al Jawhara, “The Shining Jewel”) in King Abdullah Sports City on January 7-8, 2026. Top clubs like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, and Athletic Club will compete to reach the final.

Cruise to Yanbu offers football-themed entertainment at sea

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“The cruise will feature immersive experiences including FIFA gaming sessions, live commentary events, creative workshops, and wellness programs inspired by Saudi hospitality.” — Arabian Business Editorial, Official publication reporting on Saudi Tourism Authority, AROYA Cruises, and Major Sports Cruises partnership

The AROYA cruise sets sail with an exciting three-night trip from Jeddah to Yanbu for football fans from January 8-11, 2026. Saudi Tourism Authority’s partnership has turned this ship into a floating football paradise filled with interactive activities.

Players can challenge fellow travelers in FIFA gaming tournaments to show off their virtual football skills. The cruise features special live commentary sessions where guests learn about match strategies and player performances from industry experts.

Football fans can join creative workshops that blend the sport’s excitement with Saudi’s rich cultural traditions. The cruise’s wellness programs draw inspiration from Arabian hospitality and let guests unwind between football activities.

The ship features nine decks with rooms for every budget – from interior cabins to ocean-view rooms, balcony spaces and luxury suites. Guests pick between breakfast-only plans or complete packages with drinks – perfect to celebrate wins with fellow fans worldwide.

This special sea adventure combines top-tier sports with luxury travel, adding a fresh element to Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism scene. The trip ends in Jeddah where guests get VIP seats at the Spanish Super Cup Final and meet football stars.

AROYA Cruises, Saudi Tourism Authority, and Major Sports Cruises have created something special. Their partnership marks a turning point in Saudi Arabia’s tourism rise. They’ve combined luxury sea travel with top football events to create an exciting new type of sports tourism. Fans will watch world-class football and explore Jeddah’s historic sites through guided tours. The experience includes three nights of football entertainment aboard a modern cruise ship.

Saudi Arabia has become a powerhouse in global sports. The kingdom has hosted more than 100 major international events since 2018. This mutually beneficial alliance fits perfectly into the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 roadmap. The cruise planned for January 2026 will highlight Saudi hospitality and connect international visitors to the country’s rich heritage.

AROYA’s impressive vessel spans 19 decks and welcomes 3,400 guests in 1,678 cabins. It’s the ideal floating venue for this sports-focused trip. Guests get exclusive access to FIFA gaming tournaments and live commentary sessions. They’ll even meet football legends during the Spanish Super Cup Final. These carefully chosen activities show how sports tourism can exceed traditional expectations.

This partnership opens doors for future ventures that mix luxury travel with premium sporting events. Saudi Arabia continues to expand its tourism options while growing its reputation as a top destination for sports fans worldwide. AROYA’s cruise model creates a blueprint for future projects that bring together sports, culture, and hospitality – key elements of the Kingdom’s bold tourism vision.