6,000 tourists to set sail with IslamiCruise Malaysia-Saudia

by SHAUQI WAHAB  – The Malaysian Reserve

THE government is aiming to welcome 6,000 tourists with IslamiCruise Malaysia-Saudia in 2026. It aligns with the country’s target to attract 35.6 million tourists, projecting RM147.1 billion in tourism revenue, under the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.

The IslamiCruise International Sdn Bhd and Saudi Arabia’s Aroya Cruises partnership was launched yesterday (Jan 22) by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

“IslamiCruise will represent the Madani government’s desire to make Malaysia a prime destination throughout 2026,” he said at the ceremony.

The cruise will operate the industry’s longest chartered voyage, spanning 26 nights, and will feature stops in Salalah (Oman), Male (Maldives) and Banda Aceh (Indonesia).

It promises a unique “halalan toyyiban” experience, offering Muslim-friendly activities such as congregational prayers, religious lectures and recreational entertainment.

“According to the market projections, we expect that the tourism industry will grow 1.2% yearly,” Ahmad Zahid added.

Meanwhile, IslamiCruise MD and founder Suhaimi Abd Ghafer said the Islamic cruise ship can accommodate up to 4,500 passengers at one time.

The ship, refurbished to reflect Islamic and Arabian culture, operates from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and Port Dickson, Malaysia. The 13-day cruise package starts from RM16,087.

It aims to attract Muslim and non-Muslim travellers, with a focus on providing a halal experience and supporting local tourism industries.

“We have a special one-month early bird promotion with a RM1,000 discount per cabin starting today (Jan 22),” Suhaimi said during the press conference.

Over the past decade, IslamiCruise has conducted 52 voyages, serving travellers from over 15 countries, and set a global benchmark in Halal tourism.