The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) introduced the Kingdom’s first-ever yacht regulations, a major step in developing coastal tourism. These regulations aim to oversee yacht activities and establish all necessary requirements for managing tourism and leisure licenses. SRSA focuses on ensuring the proper management of permits to support the sustainable growth of the coastal tourism sector.
Focus on Environmental Protection and Safety
The new regulations emphasize environmental protection, sustainability, and strict adherence to safety requirements. This move aligns with SRSA‘s broader mandate to create a sustainable coastal tourism industry in Saudi Arabia. The authority’s goals include issuing necessary licenses, setting service standards for coastal tourism, and ensuring marine environmental protection in the Red Sea.
Key Components of the New Yacht Regulations
The regulations detail the conditions and procedures for obtaining technical licenses for leisure tourism. Yacht owners or authorized maritime agents must meet specific criteria to qualify. Additionally, the regulations cover tourism chartering licenses, requiring a licensed maritime agent, a signed contract, secure marina-to-yacht access, and an onboard safety guide.
For those planning to operate within Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea waters, the regulations specify the procedures for acquiring a tourism trip permit. Essential documentation includes passenger information, sailing destinations, and a charter contract.
Water Activities and Safety Protocols
The regulations extend to water activities, mandating approvals and licenses for recreational fishing, diving, and other pursuits. Operators must provide clear usage guides, detailed rescue and first-aid response plans, and life jackets, with additional provisions for children’s activities.
The regulations also focus on inclusivity, emphasizing the rights of people with disabilities. Furthermore, they promote environmental responsibility by minimizing plastic use, preventing pollution, and ensuring compliance with safe navigation guidelines.
Awareness Campaign and Future Initiatives
To coincide with the release of these regulations, SRSA launched the “More than a Sea” awareness campaign. This initiative highlights SRSA’s role in developing a thriving coastal tourism sector by setting essential policies and strategies. SRSA focuses on creating necessary programs for regulating marine tourism activities and issuing the required licenses and permits. These regulations mark a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s efforts to establish itself as a top sustainable marine tourism destination.
