The Red Sea ranks high on the list of most beautiful coastlines on Earth, and it’s no wonder that Saudi Arabia is becoming a popular destination for cruise ships. With its sparkling turquoise waters, marine parks and coral reefs, the Red Sea coastline of Saudi Arabia offers exploration opportunities that were once off-limits to foreigners.<\/p>\n
Saudi Arabia might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of cruise holidays, but the Red Sea is fast becoming a buzzing destination for those looking for something different. With plenty of activities onboard world-class cruise ships that port in Saudi Arabia and unique historic sites, heritage, cultural experiences and natural wonders inland, this Arabian coastline should definitely be on your travel radar.<\/p>\n
Saudi Arabia is an untapped destination with a coastline that has been off-limits for years despite being right in the middle of the world\u2019s busiest marine traffic highway, linking the Indian Ocean<\/a> to the Suez Canal. However, Saudi Arabia is now opening up its coastline for cruise ships and is becoming a new destination for cruisers.<\/p>\n Since the start of the 2021 cruise season, more than 70 cruise ships have made port calls in Saudi Arabia, including major cruise lines such as Viking Ocean<\/a>, Silverseas<\/a>, Scenic and MSC<\/a>. The luxurious MSC Bellissima, one of MSC\u2019s newest family-friendly cruise ships calls Jeddah Islamic Port her homeport. In addition, MSC Virtuosa made its maiden call to Jeddah in April this year while on her way to the Mediterranean<\/a> and the British Isles for the summer season.<\/p>\n As part of the \u2018Cruise Saudi\u2019 initiative, cruise lines have added Saudi Arabia to their itineraries, and travellers are excited to explore this new destination. With Cruise Saudi’s continued efforts, it is only a matter of time before Saudi Arabia quickly becomes an established cruise destination in the Middle East<\/a>.<\/p>\n Saudi Arabia’s coastline on the Red Sea is home to a fantastic array of coral reef habitats. These reefs, along with the mangrove forests found along the Saudi coast, play a vital role in the health of the Red Sea ecosystem. In addition, the coral reefs provide a critical source of food and shelter for many fish and other marine creatures.<\/p>\n The Red Sea coastline is dotted with the ruins of ancient trading ports that attest to the region’s rich seafaring history. These sites provide valuable insights into the trade routes and settlement patterns of the past. But, perhaps most impressive are the still-surviving settlements that were developed as fishing and trading ports. These settlements offer a glimpse into the everyday life of Red Sea merchants and fishermen.<\/p>\n The diverse coastline has over 1150 islands, most with sandy beaches that offer stunning views towards its coastlines or coral reefs just offshore where snorkelling enthusiasts can explore under waterfalls pools filled with colourful fish.Saudi Arabia – a growing port of call for major cruise lines<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Major destinations along Saudi Arabia\u2019s Red Sea Coastline<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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