Every year, tens of thousands of Muslims make their way to Makkah and Madinah in Saudi Arabia to perform the sacred rituals of Hajj or Umrah. Traditionally, these pilgrims book packages that include land-based tours and activities. However, in January 2026, Malaysia will introduce a new and unique way for pilgrims to experience their journey with the launch of the IslamiCruise by Aroya Cruises.
This groundbreaking 15-day cruise will depart from the Port Klang Cruise Terminal in Selangor, Malaysia. The ship will make several stops at notable destinations including Banda Aceh in Indonesia, Oman, the Maldives, and finally dock in Saudi Arabia. Passengers performing Umrah will spend two nights in Jeddah, the gateway city for many pilgrims visiting Makkah. The itinerary replicates the traditional sea route taken by pilgrims in earlier centuries when they traveled by ship to perform their pilgrimage duties, making this cruise a truly historical experience. The Maldives, however, is a modern addition, offering travelers a new experience in their journey.
The IslamiCruise offers flexibility for travelers. Pilgrims can choose to start their journey in Saudi Arabia and complete their trip in Malaysia. This one-way cruise means that passengers will need to book a flight for their return journey, as the cruise does not include airfare in its base package. This allows passengers to tailor their trip, whether they wish to explore other parts of the region or fly back directly to Malaysia.
Although the IslamiCruise is designed for Muslim pilgrims, it also welcomes non-Muslim passengers. Non-Muslims will be offered a separate package that does not include the Umrah experience. This inclusivity ensures that the cruise can cater to a broader audience, allowing families and friends to travel together while offering different experiences based on religious observances.
Onboard the ship, passengers can enjoy a wide variety of amenities, making the cruise an enjoyable and comfortable experience. The ship features swimming pools, water slides, miniature golf, and football, providing entertainment options for travelers of all ages. These leisure activities make the journey more relaxing and enjoyable, providing a perfect balance to the spiritual purpose of the trip.
To further enrich the spiritual experience, the IslamiCruise will offer onboard lectures and spiritual guidance throughout the voyage. Renowned spiritual leaders from Malaysia and Indonesia will conduct these sessions, ensuring that passengers have the opportunity for spiritual reflection and learning during their travels. These enriching experiences aim to deepen the connection with their faith while providing a peaceful atmosphere for personal reflection.
Guests booking suites or higher-class rooms will receive a Khuzama Club membership. This exclusive membership offers additional privileges that enhance the luxury experience onboard, such as access to special events, priority services, and more. The IslamiCruise is designed to provide passengers with the highest level of comfort, ensuring that every traveler feels pampered throughout their journey.
The ship has a capacity of over 3,500 passengers and offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxurious suites and cabins to more affordable rooms, passengers can choose the best option that fits their needs. With a wide range of room types, the cruise provides flexibility and comfort for every guest.
This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on Malaysia’s economy. The IslamiCruise aims to attract around 8,000 visitors, providing a boost to Malaysia’s tourism sector, especially in the context of the global pilgrimage market. The cruise also contributes to Malaysia’s positioning as a significant player in the global travel and tourism industry.
The IslamiCruise is officially recognized by the Malaysian government as part of the Visit Malaysia 2026 tourism program. This recognition highlights the government’s commitment to developing new and innovative tourism products that attract visitors from around the world, especially those seeking a spiritual and enriching travel experience.
Malaysia Travel leads the way in pilgrimage innovation with the launch of IslamiCruise, a one-way journey to Saudi Arabia that seamlessly combines comfort with spiritual growth, offering a modern and luxurious way to experience the pilgrimage.
With the launch of the IslamiCruise, Aroya Cruises is introducing a fresh and unique way for pilgrims to undertake their journey, providing a modern and luxurious way to experience a sacred tradition. Combining spiritual enrichment with leisure, the IslamiCruise offers a perfect blend of comfort, faith, and exploration. It marks a new chapter in pilgrimage travel, offering an unforgettable experience for those embarking on one of the most important journeys of their lives.
Tags: Malaysia Travel leads IslamiCruise, Malaysia, Port Klang Cruise Terminal