Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – 7th April 2026: Cruise Saudi, the Public Investment Fund-owned cruise development entity of Saudi Arabia, has achieved Travelife Partner Status, a globally recognized sustainability certification for tourism organizations.
The certification follows an independent assessment covering key sustainability areas, including environmental management, community engagement, and responsible business practices. It reflects Cruise Saudi’s efforts to integrate sustainability across its operations and shore experience programs, in line with international standards and Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.
“Achieving Travelife Partner Status is an important milestone for Cruise Saudi and reaffirms our commitment to developing a responsible and sustainable cruise sector in the Kingdom. As we continue to welcome international cruise lines and guests, sustainability remains central to how we design and grow our destinations in partnership with local communities,” said Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi.
Naut Kusters, Founder and Manager of Travelife for Tour Operators, said: “I am delighted to see sustainability gaining momentum within the tour operator sector. Cruise Saudi’s Partner award will inspire other companies in Saudi Arabia to follow the same path.”
Cruise Saudi’s initiatives include the use of electric and hybrid vehicles for shore transfers, environmentally responsible excursion programs in Red Sea destinations, engagement of local guides and businesses, inclusive tour design, responsible sourcing practices, and sustainability training for staff.
As Saudi Arabia’s cruise industry expands, Cruise Saudi aims to deliver high-quality guest experiences while safeguarding cultural heritage, supporting local economies, and minimizing environmental impact. The Travelife Partner Status strengthens its position as a partner for international cruise lines and global tourism stakeholders.
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Cruise Saudi
Cruise Saudi, a wholly owned company of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), was established in 2021 to develop and operate a world-class cruise ecosystem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company is responsible for the full onshore and offshore value chain required to position Saudi Arabia as a premier global cruise destination – from planning, developing and operating cruise berths and terminals, to curating destination experiences, coordinating shore excursions, and supporting vessel operations.
Since launch, Cruise Saudi has activated five cruise ports and gateways across the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf; introduced AROYA Cruises, the first-ever Arabian cruise line; and announced its Joint Venture in partnership with AMAN Group, Aman at Sea, an ultra-luxury yacht scheduled to set sail in 2027. To date, the company has welcomed over 620,000 passengers from more than 120 nationalities on board 30 cruise ships from 15 international cruise lines, working closely with ministries, regulatory authorities, and global cruise partners to open up Saudi Arabia’s cultural, historical and natural assets to the world.
In line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, Cruise Saudi aims to welcome 1.3 million cruise passengers annually by 2035, enable the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and support the diversification and long-term growth of the national economy and tourism goals.
About Travelife
Travelife is an internationally recognized sustainability certification for tourism organizations, promoting responsible business practices, environmental protection, and social responsibility across the travel and tourism sector.
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