Gebr. Heinemann opens series of boutiques on board the first Saudi cruise ship AROYA
Gebr. Heinemann is opening eight exclusive boutiques on board the first Saudi Arabian cruise ship AROYA. When the first passengers board the ship operated by Cruise Saudi in December, a spectacular product range, more than 250 international and Arabian brands and more than 30 Heinemann employees will ensure an unforgettable shopping experience.
The following stores are spread over three decks:
Deck 6:
- Aroya Souk: Specializing in regional gifts, delicacies and sweets including dates from the well-known Arab brands Nua and Bateel and featuring the AROYA logo merchandise line. Digital elements such as a motion game and children’s games make the visit even more attractive
- Aroya Dukkan: A convenience store with a wide range of everyday products
Deck 7:
- Fragrances & Cosmetics Boutique: An exclusive selection of perfumes and cosmetic products including Bakhoor incense sticks
- Kids Boutique: A wide selection of toys and branded clothing for young passengers. Digital elements such as a fish animation transform the visit into a sensory experience
- Sunglasses & Leather Boutique: High quality sunglasses and leather goods
- Watches & Jewelry Boutique: Premium and luxury watches and jewelry
- Fashion & Accessories Boutique: Fashionable clothing and accessories for every taste
Deck 16:
- Khuzama Boutique: This VIP boutique offers luxury products and an exclusive shopping experience. Guests can book an appointment via the concierge
There is a total of 1,603 square meters of shopping space on board – a record for a cruise ship and a new benchmark.
Kerstin Schepers, Managing Director of Heinemann Cruise Liner Global GmbH, comments on the cooperation with Cruise Saudi: "AROYA is the first Saudi Arabian ship to set sail – we are proud to be part of this historic moment and to offer the passengers of the AROYA a first-class shopping experience."
Florian Seidel, CSO of Gebr. Heinemann, adds, "We are delighted to be working with Cruise Saudi on this great project – together we are tapping into the region's tourism potential and further expanding our regional presence in this growth region."
Dr. Jörg Rudolph, President of Aroya Cruise, said, "We are delighted to be able to offer our guests an extraordinary onboard shopping experience. Working closely with our partner, Gebr. Heinemann, we combined our insights to create a unique retail concept that includes bespoke shopping services, high-end global and Arabian brands, and excellent customer service.”
First web store on board a cruise ship
One of the innovative features on board AROYA is the first-ever cruise ship web store,
which allows passengers to shop outside of opening hours and draw inspiration ahead of their voyage. Guests can access the web store via the AROYA app, browse the range, and reserve and pre-order products. The goods can be selected and collected from the store.
Arabian culture, Arabian design
The stores' main target group is families from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states, which makes up the majority of the passengers. Accordingly, the stores reflect Arabian design and Arabian culture on board.
In the lower deck of Aroya Souk and in the Fragrances & Cosmetics Boutique, the design picks up on dune and sand motifs. Palm trees and architectural arches on the back walls pay homage to the Saudi Arabian landscape. The Kids Shop is illustrative of the Red Sea – the checkout area is reminiscent of a jellyfish and there are fish installations on the ceiling. The VIP area also impresses with its breathtaking design – the lighting and decorations look like twinkling stars and are reminiscent of a starry desert night.
In the Jewelry Boutique, there is a separate area where women can shop in privacy. There is also a separate area in the Fragrance & Cosmetics Boutique where women can have their make-up done without being disturbed.
AROYA, the first cruise ship of Cruise Saudi, is a 335-meter-long floating resort that promises an unforgettable remarkably Arabian cruising experience. With 1,678 cabins the ship can host up to 3,362 passengers. Onboard, guests can indulge in a variety of amenities, such as 15 diverse restaurants, 20 vibrant entertainment venues, a grand theatre, a refreshing swimming pool with a kid’s water park, and a relaxing spa. AROYA’s maiden voyages will explore the enchanting Red Sea, stopping at destinations like a private Saudi island, Aqaba in Jordan, and Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt.
See more pics below: