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6 min readUpdated for Umrah season 1447H (2026)

AROYA Halal Cruise Guide for Pilgrims: Sailings, Halal Dining & Khuzama VIP

Everything pilgrims ask about AROYA Cruises — alcohol-free operation, halal dining, prayer rooms, women-only hours, sailings from Jeddah and how to add a cruise after Umrah.

Marhaba Pilgrimage Editorial DeskVerified

Published October 13, 2026 · Verified Pilgrimage Logistics & Hospitality Specialists

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Pilgrims at the Haram before a Red Sea retreat
Pilgrims at the Haram before a Red Sea retreat
Quick Summary & Direct Answer

AROYA Cruises is Saudi Arabia's own cruise line, sailing from Jeddah. It markets itself as fully alcohol-free with no casino, halal dining, prayer rooms and women-only pool and spa hours. Pilgrims usually add a 2-, 3- or 4-night Red Sea sailing after Umrah, with a private transfer from their Makkah hotel to Jeddah Islamic Port. Confirm current onboard details when booking.

Reviewed by our team — always confirm current official rules.

Essential Takeaways at a Glance
  • Departs Jeddah Islamic Port, roughly 45–60 minutes from Makkah.
  • Alcohol-free ship with halal kitchens and no casino.
  • Prayer rooms, prayer-time announcements and women-only pool and spa sessions.
  • Khuzama is the premium area with suites, duplex villas and butler service.
  • Sailing dates and routes are set by the cruise line and can change.
Pilgrim Pro Tip: Sail after Umrah, then take the train to Madinah

Makkah first, then the cruise, then the Haramain train from Jeddah to Madinah — no backtracking and a restful middle to the trip.

Is AROYA really halal?

AROYA describes the ship as alcohol-free with halal dining and no casino, plus prayer rooms and family facilities. As with any travel product, confirm the latest details with the cruise line when you book.

Sailings from Jeddah

Typical sailings are 2, 3 or 4 nights on the Red Sea. Shorter sailings suit a quick rest after Umrah; longer ones may call at other Red Sea ports.

Khuzama VIP

Khuzama is the ship's premium area, with larger suites and duplex villas, a private lounge, priority boarding and butler service — popular with families wanting privacy.

Pairing a cruise with Umrah

We arrange a private car from your Makkah hotel to the port with luggage help, and pickup on return. Marhaba Haji does not sell standalone visas. Umrah visa assistance is offered only as part of an eligible full package.

Clarifications & Rules

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AROYA alcohol-free?
AROYA markets itself as a fully alcohol-free ship with halal dining and no casino. Please confirm current onboard details when booking.
How far is the port from Makkah?
Jeddah Islamic Port is about 45–60 minutes from Makkah by car, depending on traffic.
Can you book the cruise for us?
We plan the cruise around your Umrah and arrange private transfers; share your dates on WhatsApp for options.

Marhaba Pilgrimage Editorial Desk

Verified Guidance

Verified Pilgrimage Logistics & Hospitality Specialists

Written and reviewed by Marhaba Haji ground coordinators who arrange customized Umrah journeys for Indian passport holders from India, the Gulf and beyond.

Personalized Pilgrim Assistance

Have Questions About Your Pilgrimage?

Speak directly with Marhaba Haji's Bangalore team. We provide tailored hotel bookings, guided group packages, and visa advice.

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