Saudi Arabia initiated the first yachting regulations via a situation where aspiration and reality collide, starting a new chapter in its maritime history.
A line that aims to change the nation’s perception of maritime tourism and is full of promises for the future.
As part of its efforts to expand the coastal tourist industry, the Saudi Red Sea Authority published the first set of regulations governing yachting operations in the Kingdom. By establishing the required structures, the legislation hopes to safeguard the marine environment—particularly in the Red Sea—and guarantee adherence to environmental norms.
Saudi Arabia’s Yachting Regulations
The rule stipulates conditions that boat owners or navigational agents must meet to receive licenses, and it also mandates that a licensed navigational agent be present while renting a boat. To protect the environment, yacht charterers must also provide life jackets, rescue plans, and first aid in addition to restricting the usage of plastic materials. The legislation also requires permits for recreational activities like fishing and diving.
The laws include particular equipment that makes using boats easier for children and people with impairments, therefore guaranteeing their rights.
Notably, this list is part of the “More than One Sea” campaign, which seeks to elevate the Red Sea’s status as a worldwide hub for yachting activities. This will help to fulfil Saudi Arabia’s strategic goal of increasing marine tourism and developing its infrastructure, while also drawing in more tourists.
This move is a component of Saudi Arabia’s plan to advance environmental sustainability and boost tourism-driven economic growth. It helps diversify revenue streams and elevates the maturity of the coastal tourism industry, both of which benefit the regional economy and help the country realise its aspirational Vision 2030 goals.
A Pioneering Leap
In light of Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and draw tourists from all over the world, Saudi Arabia’s coastal tourism is undergoing an unparalleled resurgence.
The Saudi Tourist Authority’s data show that in 2021, the tourist industry generated almost 3.5% of the country’s gross domestic product. As more tourism projects emerge, this percentage will likely grow in the upcoming years.
Because of its natural beauty and varied surroundings, the Red Sea—which stretches 1,800 km along the Saudi coast—is one of the most popular tourist attractions worldwide.
The Red Sea Project, which aims to draw one million visitors a year by 2030, is one of the major initiatives started to enhance coastal tourism. In addition to creating over 90 natural islands, this project seems likely to boost the local economy yearly by 5.86 billion dollars and create over 70,000 jobs.
