The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has made a significant stride in developing the Kingdom’s coastal tourism sector by issuing its first-ever yacht chartering licenses. This milestone supports the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to enhance tourism services, attract investment, and expand the economic contributions of the sector.

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As part of its mandate, SRSA focuses on setting policies and strategies to regulate maritime and navigational tourism activities while overseeing marina operations. This includes issuing permits and licenses to foster investment and innovation in marine tourism.

The newly granted licenses, issued under the Large Yacht Chartering Regulation framework, authorize companies to operate yacht charters exclusively in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region. Among the first recipients of these licenses are Hill Robinson Saudi Limited, Faisal M. Higgi & Associates Co. Ltd, and JLS Yachts Limited.

To ensure compliance, SRSA conducts rigorous verification processes. These assessments cover adherence to local and international safety, security, and environmental standards, seaworthiness of the vessels, and full compliance with Saudi regulations.

By regulating coastal tourism activities, SRSA seeks to expand tourism services, stimulate investments, and create new job opportunities, ultimately boosting tourist arrivals and strengthening the national economy. The initiative also supports the growth of the yacht sector, a key pillar in the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its tourism offerings.

This latest move aligns with SRSA’s ongoing efforts to enhance marine tourism infrastructure and operations. These include granting licenses to tourism maritime agents and marina operators in the Red Sea region, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s position as a premier coastal tourism destination.