AROYA

Redefining cruise design

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Overview

Project

AROYA

Services

Client

Cruise Saudi

Year

2024

Passengers

3362

GT

151000

The largest cruise ship refit ever undertaken, AROYA marks a defining moment in modern cruise design as the first ship created specifically for the Saudi Arabian market.

Transformed in just 22 months, the 335-metre vessel set a new benchmark for cruise transformation. As lead design partner, SMC Design delivered the architecture and interior design for 80% of the ship, alongside FF&E, wayfinding, branding and art curation. Drawing on Saudi heritage, craftsmanship and landscape, every element was designed to create a seamless guest experience and a design language that is both deeply authentic and unmistakably contemporary.

Irth

Irth, AROYA’s flagship Saudi restaurant, celebrates the heritage, craft and flavours of the Kingdom’s five regions. Designed by SMC in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, the interiors reinterpret traditional craftsmanship through rich materials, regional textiles and woven forms, creating a contemporary dining destination that is both authentic and refined.

Amwaj Buffet

Amwaj Buffet on AROYA is a bright, contemporary dining space transformed from a previously dark, utilitarian restaurant. Light acacia wood, Carrara marble, citrus accents and greenery create a fresh, garden-like atmosphere, while a design inspired by the Arabic word for “waves” brings movement, warmth and openness to the space, echoing the sea beyond.

Al Waha

At the heart of AROYA’s dining offering, Al Waha is inspired by Saudi landscapes, Islamic geometry and traditional craft. Earthy tones, layered textures and subtle Arabesque detailing create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, while references to Najd stucco and Bedouin weaving bring cultural depth to a contemporary setting. The result is a serene, family-friendly space that feels both authentic and elevated.

La Tavola

La Tavola brings the warmth of an Italian trattoria to sea, balancing elegance with relaxed hospitality. Natural tones, soft lighting and botanical details, including an onboard hydroponic herb wall, create a fresh, authentic atmosphere, while views into the open kitchen celebrate artisanal craft and the convivial spirit of dining together.

Meast

Previously a VIP junket casino, this Category A space was transformed into Meast, a Turkish steakhouse and one of the project’s most dramatic reinventions. Stripped back to its bare steel framework, the venue was completely rebuilt, including a new galley created from scratch.

Space Diner

Among AROYA’s most original dining concepts, Space Diner reimagines the 1950s American diner through the lens of futuristic space travel. Chrome, neon and galaxy-inspired lighting combine with theatrical dining and entertainment, while two full-scale replica Apollo 11 capsules, developed with Timothy Oulton, create a playful, immersive experience unlike anything else at sea.

Marka Café

Celebrating the essence of Saudi hospitality, Marka Café reimagines the majlis as a contemporary social hub at sea. Traditional motifs, warm woods and soft lighting create a space that feels unmistakably Saudi yet globally inviting, while a chocolate and coffee bar with live demonstrations adds theatre and a modern sense of occasion.

KIDS AREA

A former spa was transformed into Sailor Shore, one of the largest kids’ areas at sea, spanning 1,858m² across multiple zones. Created with TigerPlay, the ocean-themed environment brings together age-appropriate play and immersive experiences, from soft play and climbing walls to gaming lounges, creative workshops and a bridge simulator.

Presidential Villa

The Presidential Villa is an exclusive retreat that pairs refined luxury with Saudi-inspired elegance. Each of the two villas features double-level garden terraces with an outdoor hot tub, sauna and alfresco dining area, while interiors combine honed stone, polished plaster, curated artworks and Italian furnishings to create a serene, elevated guest experience.

ROYAL SUITE

Positioned directly above the Captain’s Bridge, the Royal Suite offers an unrivalled sense of space, privacy and ocean connection. Spanning 395m², it combines expansive living with a private spa, beauty salon, family room and two terraces with hot tubs. At the same time, a palette of marble, limestone, Saudi Acacia and soft leathers creates an atmosphere of effortless sophistication.

Services:

Subjects:

AROYA

ASUKA III

Spirit of Discovery

Genting Dream

Queen Mary 2

MSC Bellissima

Norwegian Joy

Norwegian Escape

Pacific Explorer

MSC Grandiosa