Cruise Saudi appoints Lotus to manage global communications strategy

It will oversee media outreach and global trade fair management to support the expansion of Saudi Arabia’s cruise industry.

Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen commented, ‘Cruise Saudi is truly connecting Saudi to the rest of the world, showcasing the importance of the cruise industry as a way of discovering the culturally rich and visually beautiful country.

‘With two highly successful seasons already completed, our partnership with Lotus has come at a pivotal phase as we look ahead to welcome 1.3m cruise passenger visits by 2035 and to position Saudi as a top cruising destination on the global stage.’

Earlier this month, Clasen confirmed the purchase of the former Genting Hong Kong ship World Dream, renamed Manara.

Last month, its Neptune Co. joint venture with Aman Group inked a newbuild deal at T. Mariotti.

In January, MSC World Europa became the first cruise ship to arrive at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam.

Seatrade Cruise Global

The announcement comes ahead of Cruise Saudi’s attendance at Seatrade Cruise Global (booth #1823) next week at Broward County Convention Centre in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The event will allow the company to update the global cruise industry on the development of Saudi Arabia’s cruising infrastructure, port services and global cruise partnerships.

Priority markets for Cruise Saudi

With a focus on the Kingdom's priority markets – the Gulf Cooperation Council, Europe, UK and the USA – the appointment comes at a critical time as Cruise Saudi embarks on a new phase of development in bringing international tourists to the country. Saudi has grown its reputation in recent years as an emerging cruise destination, hosting ships operating Red Sea and Arabian Gulf itineraries.

‘We are so proud to announce that we have been appointed by Cruise Saudi to lead on their communications strategy,’ stated Lotus CEO Jules Ugo. ‘The rapid development of the Kingdom’s cruise industry is astounding, and we look forward to actively contributing and supporting during this incredible period of expansion.’