Cruise port Al Wajh
Info for port Al Wajh on 19 Feb 2028
Port information & tips for Al Wajh
Al-Wajh is a fascinating jewel on the coast of the Red Sea and is considered one of the most authentic places in Saudi Arabia. The port city impresses with its maritime tranquility and the special charm of its historical architecture, while the crystal-clear water also offers ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving. Notable highlights in the immediate vicinity include the picturesque old town Al-Balad with its traditional coral houses and ornate Roshan balconies, as well as the imposing Al-Wajh Castle, which offers visitors a magnificent view. Cruise ships dock at the Al-Wajh Commercial Port, from where the city center and cultural sights are easily accessible in just a few minutes thanks to short transfer times.
Al-Wajh on the Red Sea is developing into an important Saudi Arabian cruise port and is primarily accessible to guests from the DACH region by plane and subsequent transfers. The port is known as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Ula and offers a modern cruise center. Currently, Al-Wajh functions as a tender port, making a relaxed journey and possibly a pre-cruise overnight stay recommended.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Al-Wajh Domestic Airport (EJH), which reopened in May 2026 after extensive modernization and now has a capacity of up to 500,000 passengers annually. It is located only about 4 kilometers from the city center and the old port, making it extremely convenient to reach. For international travelers from the DACH region, a flight to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah or King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh is recommended, followed by a comfortable domestic flight with Saudia directly to Al-Wajh (EJH).
Transfer & Taxi
From Al-Wajh Domestic Airport (EJH), you can reach the port or your hotel in the city in just about 10 to 15 minutes by taxi. A ride from the airport to the city center or the old port usually costs between 30 and 50 Saudi Riyal (SAR). If you prefer to arrive by rental car, car rental options are also available at the airport, and the city is easily accessible thanks to good road connections.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Travel Planning
Given the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend arriving at least one day before embarkation to compensate for possible flight delays and to start your cruise adventure relaxed. This also provides the opportunity to explore the coastal city of Al-Wajh with its historic architecture and beautiful beaches at your leisure. The Al-Wajh Cruise Center offers all basic services such as check-in and baggage handling.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Al-Wajh on the Red Sea is developing into an important Saudi Arabian cruise port and is primarily accessible to guests from the DACH region by plane and subsequent transfers. The port is known as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Ula and offers a modern cruise center. Currently, Al-Wajh functions as a tender port, making a relaxed journey and possibly a pre-cruise overnight stay recommended.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Al-Wajh Domestic Airport (EJH), which reopened in May 2026 after extensive modernization and now has a capacity of up to 500,000 passengers annually. It is located only about 4 kilometers from the city center and the old port, making it extremely convenient to reach. For international travelers from the DACH region, a flight to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah or King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh is recommended, followed by a comfortable domestic flight with Saudia directly to Al-Wajh (EJH).
Transfer & Taxi
From Al-Wajh Domestic Airport (EJH), you can reach the port or your hotel in the city in just about 10 to 15 minutes by taxi. A ride from the airport to the city center or the old port usually costs between 30 and 50 Saudi Riyal (SAR). If you prefer to arrive by rental car, car rental options are also available at the airport, and the city is easily accessible thanks to good road connections.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Travel Planning
Given the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend arriving at least one day before embarkation to compensate for possible flight delays and to start your cruise adventure relaxed. This also provides the opportunity to explore the coastal city of Al-Wajh with its historic architecture and beautiful beaches at your leisure. The Al-Wajh Cruise Center offers all basic services such as check-in and baggage handling.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The terminal in Al-Wajh offers an ideal starting point for discoveries thanks to its location on the Red Sea and ensures a smooth onward journey into the city.
Shuttle Buses
Cruise lines frequently provide comfortable shuttle buses that take guests directly from the ship to the port exit or into the heart of the historic old town.
Taxi
Licensed taxis are available directly at the terminal, enabling flexible travel to nearby beaches as well as the cultural highlights of the region.
On Foot
The charming Al-Balad old town is reachable after a walk of about 25 minutes and offers guests the opportunity to discover the traditional Hejaz architecture at a relaxed pace.
To make the most of your stay in Al-Wajh, a discovery tour through the historic harbor district and to the pristine coastal sections of the immediate surroundings is ideal.
Al Balad
The historic old town enchants with its centuries-old coral stone houses and ornate wooden balconies; furthermore, the maritime flair can be perfectly enjoyed during a stroll along the idyllic fishing port.
Al-Zuraib Fort
This history-steeped fortification from the 17th century impresses with its massive architecture and serves simultaneously as a fascinating testimony to the former pilgrimage routes along the Red Sea.
Sharm Al-Wajh
The picturesque bay attracts visitors with turquoise water and fine sandy beaches which, thanks to their quick accessibility from the port, are ideal for a refreshing dip or for snorkeling in the pristine coral reefs.
The Historic Old Town Al Balad
The fascinating old town Al Balad is located in the immediate vicinity of the port and can be easily explored during a relaxed stroll. This history-steeped place captivates with its rare architecture made of coral stone as well as artfully carved wooden windows and, thanks to its location directly on the coast, offers an authentic, almost magical atmosphere. Small, local cafes also invite you to try traditional Saudi coffee while enjoying the view over the glittering Red Sea. Ideally, plan your tour for the morning to admire the architecture in the best light and return to the ship relaxed before the midday heat.
The return journey to the port of Al-Wajh is very relaxed and safe thanks to the short distances and good local organization.
Cruise Line Shuttle Buses
Cruise companies usually offer a convenient shuttle service that runs regularly between the historic old town of Al Balad and the port terminal. These buses wait at marked stops in the center and take you directly through security checks back to the ship.
Taxi
Local taxis can easily be found at the central fish market or in front of the city's larger hotels. The drivers know the way to the Port of Al-Wajh exactly and, thanks to the low traffic density, will take you quickly and directly to the guarded main gate of the port area.
On Foot and Orientation
A return journey on foot is ideal for guests who wish to enjoy the coastal promenade and walk directly to the port entrance. The prominent port facilities are already clearly visible from the Corniche, and the path is easy to find thanks to the clear road layout.
In port on 19 Feb 2028
