AD Ports Group Introduces Cruise Services in Egypt's Red Sea

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The AD Ports Group has heralded a new era for cruise tourism in Egypt by launching services at three pivotal Red Sea ports: Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga. This initiative significantly enhances maritime connectivity and tourism opportunities in the region.

In a related development, the company has also initiated ferry services connecting Safaga Port and NEOM Port in Saudi Arabia, facilitating the transportation of Hajj workers between the two nations.

As part of a 15-year concession agreement signed in 2024 with Egypt's Red Sea Ports Authority, AD Ports Group will manage and develop cruise and ferry operations along the Red Sea coastline.

Notably, Sharm El Sheikh welcomed the mega cruise ship “Aroya,” the largest ever to dock in the city, marking a significant milestone for its cruise tourism landscape.

The successful docking of “Aroya” follows substantial upgrades to the port’s facilities, accomplished through collaboration between Egypt’s Ministry of Transport, the Red Sea Ports Authority, and AD Ports Group.

Noura R. Al Dhaheri, CEO of Cruise Business at AD Ports Group, emphasized that this launch underscores the company's commitment to bolstering cruise tourism and fostering economic growth in the region.

She mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance passenger experiences through top-tier facilities and seamless services.

The arrival of “Aroya” is just the beginning, with further scheduled visits anticipated in 2026, reinforcing Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga’s status as vital cruise destinations.

Beyond the UAE, AD Ports Group also manages the Aqaba Cruise Terminal in Jordan, affirming its regional influence.

Egypt continues to play a crucial role in AD Ports Group’s global expansion plans. In addition to cruise operations, the company is enhancing logistics and maritime infrastructure throughout the country.

Later this year, the Group will unveil the Noatum Ports Safaga Terminal, a $200 million multipurpose cargo terminal aimed at boosting trade in Upper Egypt. Additionally, they're developing the KEZAD East Port Said Industrial and Logistics Park in collaboration with Egyptian enterprises near the Suez Canal.

In November 2025, AD Ports Group committed 13.2 billion Egyptian pounds ($279 million) to acquire a 19.3% stake in Alexandria Container & Cargo Handling Company, which is among Egypt's leading container terminal operators, and later sought a majority shareholding.

The rollout of cruise and ferry services at Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga represents the latest step in AD Ports Group’s investment in Egypt, underscoring its dedication to the country’s tourism and maritime transportation goals.

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