Saudi Red Sea Authority Unveils First Yacht Regulation

The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has introduced Saudi Arabia's first regulation for yachts within its jurisdiction. This regulation governs yacht activities, sets necessary requirements, and oversees the issuance of tourism and leisure licenses. It also ensures environmental protection, sustainability, and adherence to safety standards, aligning with SRSA's role in promoting sustainable coastal tourism.

Issuing this new regulation aligns with SRSA's mandate to issue necessary licenses and permits, set service standards for coastal tourism activities, and ensure marine environmental protection in the Red Sea. The regulation aims to enhance user experiences and advance the maturity of the coastal tourism sector.

The regulation includes conditions and procedures for issuing technical licenses for leisure tourism. It outlines criteria for yacht owners or authorized maritime agents. Additionally, it specifies conditions for issuing tourism chartering licenses, requiring a licensed maritime agent or yacht management company, a signed contract between the agent and charterer, secure marina access to the yacht, and an onboard safety guide.

To obtain a tourism trip permit within Saudi Arabia's Red Sea waters, mandatory documentation is required. This includes a list of passengers' information, sailing destinations, and a chartering contract. These measures ensure that all trips are well-documented and safe.

The regulation mandates approvals and licenses for water activities like recreational fishing and diving. It requires a clear usage guide for these activities, a comprehensive response plan detailing rescue and first aid procedures, availability of life jackets, and special activities for children. These measures aim to ensure safety during water-based recreational activities.

Additionally, the regulation emphasizes issuing required licenses and providing specifications for chartering yachts. It ensures all safety and environmental protection measures are met on board. The rights of people with disabilities are highlighted along with preserving the marine environment by minimizing plastic use and preventing pollution.

The regulation stresses adherence to safe navigation guidelines and ensuring charterers comply with their contracts' terms. These steps are crucial in maintaining a safe and environmentally friendly yachting experience in the Red Sea region.

This new regulation coincides with SRSA's awareness campaign "More Than a Sea". Through this campaign, SRSA highlights its roles in developing a thriving coastal tourism sector by setting policies, strategies, plans, programs, and initiatives necessary for regulating navigational and marine tourism activities.

The campaign also focuses on issuing licenses and permits essential for these activities. By doing so, SRSA aims to foster a well-regulated environment that supports sustainable growth in coastal tourism while protecting marine ecosystems.