We traveled overnight from Alexandria to Aswan by train, hoping for a comfortable sleeper experience. At the last minute, tickets weren’t available, and Egypt had just introduced a two-tier pricing system for regular trains. We ended up paying a 350% higher “special foreigner” fare for first class, which turned out to be dirty, noisy, and far from comfortable. It felt like a scam, but it was true—Egyptian Railways seems to rely on foreign travelers for revenue while discouraging their use of regular trains. Having navigated local transport in Egypt before, we decided to abandon trains entirely and switched to buses instead.
However, since our next destination was Saudi Arabia, buses weren’t sufficient. Initially, we considered traveling via Sudan and taking a ferry from Port Sudan to Jeddah. With Sudan’s security situation becoming unstable and no clear ferry schedules available, the plan proved too risky and complicated.
Locals in Cairo and Alexandria hinted at ferries to Saudi Arabia from Hurghada or other Egyptian ports, but no one had details. Travel agents insisted flights were the only option. Determined, we sought out any evidence of ferries. A tip from a taxi driver and a single online report confirmed ferries ran from Safaga, Egypt, to Duba, Saudi Arabia. Passenger ferries from other Egyptian ports appeared nonexistent.
Before You Go
Most travelers need a visa for Saudi Arabia check requirements based on your nationality. The process is online and straightforward.
The overnight ferry takes about nine hours, not including additional time for check-in, boarding, loading, and disembarking. It runs nightly, but tickets must be purchased in advance at the office you can’t buy them at the port or online.
Onboard, the ferry offers a basic cafeteria with affordable meals. Breakfast typically includes eggs, foul, bread, and tea, with dinner also available. A “family room” is reserved for women and couples.
The ferry carries both passengers and cargo, so vehicles can be transported. Shipping a car or motorcycle requires extra paperwork and inspections. We observed security officers removing tires for x-ray checks before boarding.
Saudi Arabia is very conservative. Women should cover up, though foreigners aren’t required to wear a hijab or abaya. Many local women wear a full niqab, but it’s no longer mandatory, similar to some women in Egypt.
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Luxor to Safaga
Safaga is roughly a 3.5-hour bus ride from Luxor, with several bus companies operating near the train station. We left late, so we stayed overnight in Safaga and an additional night because it took a full day to locate the shipping line and secure ferry tickets. The ferry departs at night, so it’s possible to complete the trip in a single day if you move efficiently.
Getting Your Ferry Tickets in Safaga
Our host in Safaga picked us up at night and drove us to our apartment, pointing out a ferry ticket office for Namma Shipping along the way. Although we had seen it online, passenger information was scarce.
The next day, we searched various shipping offices, travel agents, and locals near the port. With most signs in Arabic, it was challenging. Triumph was closed, and Namma Shipping no longer offered passenger ferries. Eventually, a cargo office worker understood our request and gave us the number of Mr. Alaa, who oversees port operations.
Mr. Alaa instructed us to visit his office later that day—most offices open after noon. His company, International Union Shipping Company (also called Kenzy Travels), handles ferry passengers. The office is on the fourth floor of a building next to the El Jawhara Inn, marked by a blue anchor. (UPDATE 2025: Kenzy Travels has moved to a location in front of the New Police Station.)
Bring cash, your passport, and a printed Saudi e-Visa.
At the office, Mr. Alaa and his team explained ticket options. We chose a private cabin, which was comfortable; the other option, open Pullman seats, seemed less appealing. They processed our passports and visas, entered data into the system, and printed our documents. After paying cash, we were told to return that evening to collect tickets and board the ferry.
Departure and Onboard the Ferry
That evening, we returned to Mr. Alaa’s office, collected our passports, and waited a couple of hours—fortunately, there isn’t much to do in Safaga. The office is within walking distance of the port, and one of Mr. Alaa’s assistants escorted us through immigration and onto the vessel. This personal guidance is helpful, as the port is a maze and few foreigners take this ferry.
At the port, several steps are required: showing passports and tickets, paying small fees (departure tax in Egyptian pounds—keep your receipt), and sometimes a short bus ride inside the compound. Passengers then wait while officials handle passports and paperwork, often in a cloud of cigarette smoke. Exit forms are completed during this time, and eventually, passports are returned with stamps.
Foot passengers board first, followed by vehicles and trucks. Onboard, we went directly to reception to receive our cabin number and key. Our cabin was comfortable, and we spent time exploring the vessel. Alcohol isn’t allowed, but there’s a cafeteria serving breakfast. Hot water samovars are available, and we brought our Aeropress for coffee.
Mornings begin with the call to prayer broadcast throughout the ship, so no alarm is necessary. We enjoyed breakfast and a leisurely stroll, taking in the view as we approached Saudi Arabia.
Arriving in Saudi Arabia
Although we boarded the ferry around midnight in Egypt, it didn’t depart until later, and we reached Saudi Arabia around 2 PM at the Port of Neom, about 38 kilometers north of Duba.
The port terminal is small but fairly organized. Join the queue for passport control, and the process begins. Despite being the only two foreign nationals onboard, clearance took a while. A small but memorable touch: the immigration officer was the first to wish me a happy birthday—a thoughtful gesture amidst the long wait.
Neom Port to Duba – The ‘Pearl of the Red Sea’
On the ferry, we met a friendly Saudi businessman who was eager to leave Egypt. Before heading to our cabins, he warmly welcomed us to Saudi Arabia, insisting we’d enjoy it even more than Egypt.
The next morning, he waited for us outside while immigration processed our e-Visas. With no public transport available from Neom Port, he kindly offered a ride to Duba and helped us find a hotel.
Saudi Arabia is largely car-dependent, especially in remote areas like Neom. Public transport is scarce, so travelers may need to arrange rides with fellow passengers or rely on hitchhiking—though drivers move quickly, so caution is advised.
Duba, known as the ‘Pearl of the Red Sea,’ has limited and expensive accommodations and few dining options. We suggest withdrawing cash (ATMs are available) and securing bus tickets for onward travel.
We spent one night in Duba, then took a five-and-a-half-hour bus ride to Yanbu, stayed overnight, and continued to Medina. The journey was smooth roads are good, but distances are long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel from Egypt to Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Most travelers require a Saudi e-Visa. The process is online, straightforward, and should be completed before departure.
How long is the ferry from Safaga to Duba?
The overnight ferry takes approximately nine hours, not including check-in, boarding, and waiting times.
Can I buy ferry tickets at the port or online?
No. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the ferry office in Safaga (Kenzy Travels/International Union Shipping Company). Cash, passport, and Saudi e-Visa are required.
What facilities are available onboard?
The ferry offers a cafeteria, hot water samovars, and private cabins. There’s also a family area for women and couples. Alcohol is not permitted.
Can I transport a vehicle on the ferry?
Yes, the ferry carries cars and motorcycles. However, vehicle shipping involves extra paperwork, inspections, and time.
How do I get from Neom Port to Duba?
Neom Port is remote and lacks public transport. Options include pre-arranged rides, fellow passengers, taxis, or hitchhiking (caution advised).
What should I know about travel in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is car-dependent, especially in remote areas. Roads are good, distances are long, and public transport options are limited. Women should dress modestly, though foreigners aren’t required to wear a hijab or abaya.
Conclusion
Traveling from Safaga, Egypt, to Duba, Saudi Arabia, by ferry is a unique and memorable experience. While the journey requires careful planning visas, tickets, and navigating remote ports—the reward is a smooth overnight trip across the Red Sea and entry into a fascinating region of Saudi Arabia. From the comfort of private cabins to the stunning sea views and the friendly interactions along the way, this route offers an authentic travel experience that blends adventure with practicality.
