In a significant move to advance marine tourism and enhance coastal attractions, the Saudi Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA). This strategic partnership aims to support the establishment, development, and operation of world-class tourist marinas while improving beaches and coastal tourism destinations across the Kingdom.
A Major Step Towards Saudi Vision 2030
The collaboration between the ministry and SRSA is a vital part of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to position Saudi Arabia as a premier global tourism hub. One of SRSA’s key ambitions is to capture 40% of the Kingdom’s entertainment spending by 2030, making marine tourism a central pillar of the country’s economic diversification plans.
Through this agreement, both entities will focus on:
Establishing maintenance and service centers for watercraft.
Improving beach infrastructure to provide a world-class experience for visitors.
Developing and promoting coastal tourism destinations to attract both local and international tourists.
Regulations and Standards for Tourist Marinas
Under its mandate, the Saudi Red Sea Authority is responsible for formulating guidelines, standards, and regulatory frameworks for the establishment and management of tourist marinas. The MoU ensures that all new marinas are constructed in compliance with:
The Saudi Building Code.
The approved design and planning standards for tourist marinas.
Additionally, the agreement outlines municipal licensing requirements for marina operations, including the setup of marine fuel stations.
Streamlining Marina Development Through the Balady Platform
One of the key benefits of this partnership is the introduction of a simplified and efficient process for obtaining approvals for marina development. The Balady Platform, a government e-service portal, will facilitate the submission, processing, and approval of applications for tourist marina construction and operation. This digital integration is expected to accelerate the implementation of marine tourism projects while ensuring compliance with Saudi regulations.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Beyond tourism promotion, SRSA remains committed to protecting the marine environment in areas designated for maritime tourism activities. The authority will ensure that all projects align with sustainability practices, preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Saudi Arabia’s coastal regions.
Boosting Saudi Arabia’s Global Appeal in Marine Tourism
With its breathtaking coastline along the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia is uniquely positioned to become a leading destination for marine tourism. The development of high-quality marinas, luxury waterfront facilities, and enhanced beach destinations will attract yachting enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and leisure travelers from around the world.
By enhancing its coastal infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is taking a significant step towards becoming a premier marine tourism hotspot, offering world-class experiences while preserving its natural heritage.
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