Saudi Red Sea Authority issues first six licenses for tourist yacht agents

SAUDI ARABIA – The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has granted the first six licenses for tourist yacht agents in Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal step in the Kingdom’s efforts to develop a vibrant and well-regulated coastal tourism sector.

This initiative highlights SRSA’s dedication to transforming the Red Sea into a leading global destination for maritime tourism, fully aligned with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The newly licensed companies include prominent national and international players such as Faisal Hejji and Co, Yusuf Ahmed Kanoo, Hasco Group, Hill Robinson, JLS Yachts, and Gulf Agency Company (GAC).

These firms are now authorized to operate yacht-related tourism services along Saudi Arabia’s pristine Red Sea coastline, supporting the growing influx of tourists, investors, and industry professionals eager to explore the region’s unique marine environment.

This licensing milestone is part of SRSA’s broader mandate to regulate navigational and marine tourism activities, attract investment, and ensure the sustainable development of coastal tourism infrastructure.

By issuing these permits, the Authority aims to streamline arrival and departure procedures at marinas and ports, enhance tourism logistics, and facilitate customs processes, thereby providing a seamless experience for visitors arriving by sea.

The initiative also underscores SRSA’s commitment to protecting the fragile marine ecosystem of the Red Sea, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The Authority’s efforts include identifying infrastructure needs, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering an inviting environment for all stakeholders.

Saudi Vision 2030 envisions the Red Sea region as a premier destination attracting millions of coastal tourists annually, contributing billions to the national economy and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs.

The licensing of tourist yacht agents is a critical enabler of this vision, helping to professionalize and expand the luxury marine tourism sector.

By formalizing the operations of yacht charter companies, SRSA is enhancing the quality and diversity of marine tourism offerings, ranging from leisure yachting and cruising to bespoke coastal experiences.

This development not only elevates Saudi Arabia’s global tourism profile but also stimulates local economic diversification and job creation.

The issuance of these first six licenses represents a foundational step toward establishing the Red Sea as a world-class maritime tourism hub.

SRSA continues to work closely with investors, government bodies, and environmental experts to ensure the sustainable and prosperous growth of the Kingdom’s coastal tourism industry.

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