A new horizon in cruise retail
Gebr. Heinemann, a global leader in travel retail, has launched eight exclusive boutiques across three decks of the AROYA cruise ship. Spanning a total of 1,603 square metres, this retail space sets a new benchmark as the largest at sea.
Passengers can explore a curated selection of over 250 international and Arabian brands, ensuring a diverse and luxurious shopping experience.
The boutiques are strategically located to enhance passenger convenience:
- Deck 6:
- Aroya Souk: Specialises in regional gifts, delicacies, and sweets, featuring renowned Arab brands such as Nua and Bateel, along with exclusive AROYA logo merchandise.
- Aroya Dukkan: A convenience store offering a wide range of everyday products and travel essentials.
- Deck 7:
- Five boutiques dedicated to Fragrances & Cosmetics, Kids, Sunglasses & Leather, Watches & Jewellery, and Fashion & Accessories, catering to diverse passenger preferences.
- Deck 16:
- Khuzama Boutique: Offers luxury products and an exclusive shopping experience, with appointments bookable via the ship’s concierge.
In a pioneering move, AROYA also features the first web store on a cruise ship. Accessible through the AROYA app, passengers can browse and reserve products outside of traditional store hours, adding a layer of convenience to their shopping experience.
Introducing AROYA: A symbol of Saudi Arabia’s maritime ambitions
AROYA Cruises, a subsidiary of Cruise Saudi, introduced the AROYA ship as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning maritime tourism industry. The ship, accommodating 3,362 passengers, boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including a 1,018-seat theatre, children’s zone, and dedicated prayer areas, ensuring a comprehensive and culturally attuned experience for all guests.
The ship’s maiden voyage commenced from Jeddah on 16 December 2024, embarking on a three-night journey across the Red Sea. This voyage signifies the beginning of AROYA Cruises’ commitment to offering year-round luxury experiences tailored specifically to Saudi and GCC nationals and residents.
Aligning with Vision 2030: a commitment to tourism and luxury
The launch of AROYA Cruises and the collaboration with Gebr. Heinemann align seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to position the country as a premier global tourism destination. By introducing luxury cruise experiences that cater to regional preferences, Saudi Arabia is diversifying its tourism offerings and appealing to a broader spectrum of international visitors.
Dr. Jörg Rudolph, President of AROYA Cruises, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to be able to offer our guests an extraordinary onboard shopping experience. Working closely with our partner, Gebr. Heinemann, we combined our insights to create a unique retail concept that includes bespoke shopping services, high-end global and Arabian brands, and excellent customer service.”
Implications for the global cruise industry
The introduction of such an extensive retail space aboard AROYA sets a new standard in the cruise industry. It reflects a growing trend towards enhancing onboard experiences to meet the evolving expectations of passengers. By integrating culturally relevant and diverse retail options, cruise lines can offer more personalised and enriching experiences, potentially attracting a wider demographic of travellers.
Furthermore, the collaboration between Gebr. Heinemann and AROYA Cruises exemplifies the potential for synergy between global retail leaders and emerging cruise lines. Such partnerships can lead to innovative offerings that enhance passenger satisfaction and drive the growth of the cruise industry in new regions.
Looking ahead: a promising voyage
As AROYA sets sail, it not only offers a luxurious journey across the Red Sea but also represents a significant stride in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to expand its tourism sector.
