Partnership underscores The Kingdom’s growing role in global sports tourism through a collaboration built around the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah
Jeddah, 26 October 2025 – AROYA Cruises, Saudi Tourism Authority (‘STA’), and Major Sports Cruises announced a strategic partnership that reinforces Saudi’s growing influence in shaping global sports and tourism experiences. The collaboration unites world-class football, Saudi hospitality, and the opportunity to explore Saudi through an integrated programme built around the Spanish Super Cup, hosted in Jeddah in January 2026.
Formalized at a signing ceremony at STA’s headquarters in Riyadh on 22 October 2025, the partnership aims to further strengthen Saudi’s position as a global destination for sport, culture, and tourism in line with Vision 2030.
The collaboration introduces a seamless travel experience connecting the passion of Spanish football with the discovery of Saudi’s culture and coastline. Visitors arriving from Europe will begin their journey in Jeddah, exploring the city through curated excursions facilitated by STA in collaboration with local destination management companies and European tour operators. Experiences include guided visits to Historic Jeddah, the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Jeddah Waterfront, followed by attendance at the Spanish Super Cup semifinals on 7 and 8 January 2026, which will feature clubs such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, and Athletic Club.
Commenting on the strategic partnership announcement, Hazim Al-Hazmi, President of Europe and Americas Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “Saudi has firmly established itself as a global events powerhouse, hosting over 100 major, international sporting events since 2018. As we prepare to welcome fans to Jeddah for the Spanish Super Cup, we look forward to sharing the authentic Heart of Arabia where tradition meets excitement in truly unforgettable ways. Jeddah, the nation’s cosmopolitan gateway, offers a wealth of dynamic attractions, from the historic allure of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the vibrant City Walk and bustling gold souks. Here, every visitor will discover the warmth, energy, and diversity that make this city, and all of Saudi, unforgettable.”
Following the semifinals, the experience continues onboard AROYA from 8 to 11 January 2026, as guests sail from Jeddah to Yanbu. Life at sea offers immersive activities ranging from interactive FIFA gaming experiences and live commentary sessions, creative workshops and wellness programmes inspired by Saudi hospitality.
Dr Joerg Rudolph, President of AROYA Cruises, said: “This partnership represents a major step in connecting international audiences with Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism landscape. Together with our partners, we are creating a journey that unites the excitement of Spanish football with the discovery of Saudi Arabia and the warmth of Arabian hospitality.”
The program will conclude back in Jeddah on 11 January 2026 with the Spanish Super Cup Final, where guests will enjoy a VIP experience during the match in addition to exclusive opportunities to meet with football legends, and join fan celebrations that will mark the conclusion of a week that is set to unite sport, culture, and Saudi hospitality.
Major Sports Cruises, a Spanish company specializing in themed football cruises, has extensive experience in developing and commercializing sports IP rights through exclusive hospitality and travel packages. The company merges luxury tourism with world-class football experiences, designing tailored programs that connect fans, brands, and destinations through the universal passion for the game.
Building on this expertise, Major Sports Cruises will enhance the Saudi market by introducing a European approach that blends luxury travel with football heritage and the participation of legendary players. Through curated events and premium experiences, the company aims to bridge cultures and strengthen Saudi’s position as a global destination for sports tourism.
A range of travel and hospitality packages will be introduced as part of the programme, offering diverse options for guests to experience the Spanish Super Cup journey.
For more information, visit aroya.com/en.