Cruise Saudi names Taha Nazer as Acting CEO

Cruise Saudi has appointed Taha Nazer as its Acting Chief Executive Officer, marking a key leadership transition for the Kingdom’s fast-evolving cruise tourism sector.

In an official statement, the company said its Board of Directors confirmed Nazer’s appointment while extending its appreciation to former CEO Lars Clasen for his contributions. 

During his tenure, Clasen played a pivotal role in launching AROYA Cruises, expanding cruise destinations across Saudi Arabia, and advancing the development of Aman at Sea. 

"Cruise Saudi Board of Directors announced the appointment of Taha Nazer as Acting Chief Executive Officer. The Board thanks Lars for his commitment and the contributions he has made during his tenure in establishing AROYA Cruises, developing cruise destinations across the Kingdom, and leading the development of Aman at Sea," the company.

Nazer, who joined Cruise Saudi in 2023 as Chief Financial Officer, has been closely involved in steering the company’s financial strategy and commercial performance. The Board highlighted his role in strengthening financial discipline and shaping the company’s broader strategic direction.

With over 19 years of experience spanning the oil and gas, aviation, and cruise industries, Nazer brings a cross-sector perspective to the role. His background in financial and commercial leadership is expected to support Cruise Saudi’s next phase of growth, as the Kingdom continues to invest heavily in tourism as part of its economic diversification ambitions.

The leadership shift comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is accelerating efforts to position itself as a global cruise destination, with Cruise Saudi playing a central role in developing infrastructure, destinations, and homegrown cruise offerings.