AD Ports Unveils Cruise Services at Egypt's Red Sea Destinations

AD Ports Group has initiated cruise services at three key terminals in Egypt's Red Sea region: Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga. This development plays a critical role in enhancing maritime connectivity and attracting cruise tourism to the area.

Additionally, ferry services have commenced between Safaga Port and NEOM Port in Saudi Arabia, facilitating the movement of Hajj workers between the nations.

In a strategic move, AD Ports Group entered into a 15-year concession agreement with Egypt's Red Sea Ports Authority in 2024 to oversee the development and operation of cruise and ferry terminals along the Red Sea coastline.

As part of this initiative, the Sharm El Sheikh Cruise Port recently welcomed “Aroya,” a significant mega cruise ship, marking a significant advancement for Red Sea cruise tourism and underscoring Sharm El Sheikh’s potential as a vital cruise destination.

The docking of “Aroya” followed extensive upgrades to the port facilities, coordinated by Egypt's Ministry of Transport in collaboration with AD Ports Group and the Red Sea Ports Authority.

Noura R. Al Dhaheri, CEO of Cruise Business at AD Ports Group, stated that launching cruise and ferry services in Egypt is a testament to the company's dedication to expanding cruise tourism across the Red Sea and fostering economic growth in its operational markets.

She emphasized the company’s commitment to improving passenger experiences through exceptional facilities and seamless services in collaboration with its partners.

The arrival of “Aroya” marks its initial scheduled visit, with additional stops planned throughout 2026, reinforcing the attractiveness of Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga as prime cruise destinations.

In addition to its UAE operations, AD Ports Group manages the Aqaba Cruise Terminal in Jordan under a partnership with the Aqaba Development Corporation.

Egypt is a focal point in AD Ports Group’s international expansion strategy. Beyond cruise operations, the company is enhancing its logistics and maritime infrastructure throughout the nation.

Later this year, the Group intends to unveil the Noatum Ports Safaga Terminal, a $200 million multi-functional cargo terminal designed to bolster trade in Upper Egypt. Moreover, the company is establishing the KEZAD East Port Said Industrial and Logistics Park near the Suez Canal in partnership with Egyptian firms.

In November 2025, AD Ports Group invested 13.2 billion Egyptian pounds (approximately $279 million) to acquire a 19.3 percent holding in Alexandria Container & Cargo Handling Company, one of Egypt's leading terminal operators, before moving to secure a majority stake.

The introduction of cruise and ferry services at Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga marks a pivotal advancement in AD Ports Group’s increasing investment in Egypt, supporting the nation's tourism and maritime transport objectives.