The unified marine activities guide: a qualitative leap in Saudi coastal tourism
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing Saudi Arabia's position as a leading global tourism destination, the Saudi Red Sea Authority the launch of the "Coastal Tourism Activities Guide." This initiative is part of the Authority's efforts to unify regulatory and informational frameworks, making it easier for tourists, investors, and marine activity practitioners to access all regulations and procedures through a centralized and unified digital platform.
The context of tourism transformation and Vision 2030
The launch of this guide comes at a time when the Kingdom is undergoing a historic transformation in its tourism sector, in line with the goals Vision 2030 , which aims to diversify national income sources and make tourism a cornerstone of the economy. The Red Sea coast, with its vast expanse and rich natural treasures and rare coral reefs, is one of the Kingdom's most important tourism assets, which it is developing through mega-projects. Previously, the most significant challenge lay in the multiplicity of regulatory bodies and the fragmentation of information, making this guide an urgent necessity to bridge the gap between legislation and practice.
A comprehensive window into maritime tourism services
The guide is designed to be a comprehensive resource, eliminating bureaucracy and fragmented information. It provides users with complete content, including all requirements, specifications, and updated procedures, all in one place. The guide is meticulously organized, saving time and effort and transforming the information search into a seamless and reliable digital experience. It also features a frequently asked questions section and clear, straightforward guidance on what is permitted and prohibited.
Focus on yacht tourism
The Authority launched the first series of the guide, focusing on yachting , given its growing importance in the luxury tourism market. The guide provides a practical itinerary for a yacht journey from arrival in territorial waters to departure, including:
1. Regulatory procedures and required documents.
2. The mechanism for identifying and confirming the port of arrival (port or marina) through a licensed agent.
3. A list of approved service providers, including shipping agents and charter companies.
4. Maritime safety guidelines and environmental sustainability requirements for preserving the Red Sea environment.
Safety and sustainability: the cornerstones of the experience
To ensure a safe tourism experience, the system is complemented by the "Challenge" specialized insurance program, designed specifically to cover the risks associated with coastal tourism activities, thus enhancing the confidence of visitors and operators. The guide also keeps pace with regulatory requirements through regular updates that guarantee the protection of beneficiaries and clarify the mechanisms for submitting complaints and feedback.
Expected economic and investment impact
This guide is expected to attract more foreign and domestic investment to the coastal tourism sector, providing the transparency and clarity investors seek. It includes a selection of coastal destinations and suggested itineraries that combine adventure with cultural exploration, along with refueling points, making it an indispensable resource for advance planning. The Authority affirms that this guide is the go-to resource for anyone wishing to explore the treasures of the Red Sea or invest in its promising future.
