Saudi Red Sea Authority launches yacht charter service

The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has made significant progress in developing tourism along the Saudi coast by issuing its first yacht charter license. This milestone supports the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to strengthen tourism services, attract investment and expand the economic contribution of the sector.

Also read: Saudi Red Sea Authority launches ‘More Than a Sea’ to boost coastal tourism

As part of its mandate, SRSA focuses on developing policies and strategies to regulate maritime and nautical tourism activities while overseeing terminal operations. This includes issuing permits and licenses to promote investment and innovation in the marine tourism industry.

The newly issued license was issued under the Large Yacht Charter Regulatory Framework and authorizes the company to operate yacht charter exclusively in the Red Sea region of Saudi Arabia. The first companies to receive these licenses include Hill Robinson Saudi Limited, Faisal M. Higgi & Associates Co. Ltd and JLS Yachts Limited.

To ensure compliance, SRSA implements a rigorous verification process. These assessments cover compliance with local and international safety, security and environmental standards, ship seaworthiness and full compliance with Saudi regulations.

By regulating coastal tourism activities, the SRSA seeks to expand tourism services, stimulate investment and create new jobs, ultimately increasing tourist arrivals and strengthening the national economy. The initiative also supports the development of the yachting industry, a key pillar in the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its tourism offering.

This latest move is in line with SRSA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen marine tourism infrastructure and operations. These include the issuance of licenses to tourist maritime agents and terminal operators in the Red Sea region, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s position as a premier coastal tourism destination.