Cruises from Jeddah open up a fascinating corner of the Red Sea, combining Saudi Arabian culture with ancient wonders, beautiful coastlines and destinations across Egypt and Jordan.
Cruises from Jeddah
Your Gateway to Red Sea Cruising
Jeddah is emerging as one of the Red Sea's most important cruise gateways, connecting Saudi Arabia with destinations across Egypt and Jordan. From the city's historic streets and waterfront to itineraries visiting Aqaba, Sharm El Sheikh and other Red Sea ports, cruising from Jeddah offers something genuinely different from the more established Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf routes.
Cruise and Stay Holidays in Jeddah
Jeddah deserves more than simply a transfer from the airport to your ship. Add a night or two before your cruise and explore Al-Balad, the city's UNESCO-listed historic heart, discover traditional souqs and distinctive coral-stone architecture, or spend an evening along the Jeddah Corniche overlooking the Red Sea.
Historic Jeddah has been an important trading and pilgrimage gateway for centuries, with architectural influences shaped by routes linking Arabia, Africa and Asia.
Why Start Your Cruise From Jeddah?
Starting your cruise in Jeddah puts you at the heart of one of cruising's newest developing regions. Red Sea itineraries combine cultural cities, spectacular archaeological sites and warm-water coastal destinations, with shorter sailings alongside longer voyages linking the Red Sea and Mediterranean.
It is particularly appealing if you have already cruised the Mediterranean, Caribbean or Arabian Gulf and want to discover somewhere different.
Top 3 Things to Do in Jeddah
Before your cruise, Jeddah offers a mix of heritage, coastline and modern culture.
Al-Balad (Old Town)
Explore Jeddah's UNESCO-listed historic quarter, known for its coral-stone buildings, ornate wooden Roshan balconies, traditional souqs and centuries of trading history.
Jeddah Corniche
Spend time beside the Red Sea along Jeddah's waterfront, with promenades, coastal views, restaurants and some of the city's best-known contemporary landmarks.
King Fahd Fountain
One of Jeddah's most recognisable sights, the enormous fountain rises from the Red Sea and is particularly impressive when illuminated after dark.
Saudi Arabia - A Destination on the Rise
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in tourism and cruise infrastructure, positioning Jeddah as a key gateway to the Red Sea. With global events such as the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix currently held in Jeddah and the FIFA World Cup coming to the country in 2034, the region is set to grow in international appeal, making it an exciting destination for future cruise travel.
Where Can You Cruise to From Jeddah?
Cruises from Jeddah explore the Red Sea, with itineraries visiting a growing number of fascinating destinations across the region. Highlights include Aqaba in Jordan, the gateway to the ancient city of Petra, and ports in Egypt such as Safaga, offering access to the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Luxor.
Some sailings also visit emerging Saudi coastal destinations, combining cultural heritage with untouched coastline. These itineraries offer a unique mix of history, iconic landmarks and scenic cruising, with more destinations expected to be added as the region continues to develop.
Cruise Lines Sailing From Jeddah
As Jeddah grows as a gateway to the Red Sea, an increasing range of cruise lines are introducing itineraries from Saudi Arabia. From contemporary Saudi cruising to smaller yacht-style ships and refined ocean journeys, there are several ways to explore this emerging cruise region.
AROYA Cruises
AROYA Cruises uses Jeddah as a key gateway to the Red Sea, combining Saudi Arabian destinations with ports across the wider region. Its sailings offer a fresh way to discover this emerging cruise destination from Saudi Arabia.
Red Sea Cruises from Jeddah
Cruise programmes from Jeddah are continuing to develop, with everything from short Red Sea escapes to longer voyages combining Saudi Arabia with Egypt, Jordan and the Mediterranean. Availability varies considerably by season, so explore our latest Jeddah cruise holidays below for current itineraries.
Cruises From Jeddah - Frequently Asked Questions
If you are planning a cruise from Saudi Arabia's coastal city of Jeddah, these quick answers cover common questions about visiting the city before your sailing.
Yes, most visitors will require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Tourist eVisas are available for many nationalities and are typically straightforward to apply for online, but requirements can vary, so it is important to check before travelling.
Alcohol is not permitted in Saudi Arabia, including in Jeddah. Cruise ships departing from the region may adapt onboard policies while in Saudi waters, with normal service resuming once outside restricted areas depending on the itinerary and cruise line.
Saudi cuisine offers a mix of Middle Eastern flavours, including dishes such as kabsa (spiced rice with meat), fresh seafood and grilled meats. International dining options are also widely available across the city.
Cruises depart from Jeddah Islamic Port, one of the largest ports in the region, located close to the city and easily accessible by transfer.
A stay of one to two nights is typically enough to explore the city’s key highlights and experience its culture before embarkation.
Jeddah is an emerging cruise port offering access to a unique and less-explored region, making it ideal for those looking for something different.
Book Your Next Cruise From Jeddah
Discover our latest cruises from Jeddah and experience the Red Sea on a unique and unforgettable journey.
