Riyadh, February 06, 2024, The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA), which plays a pivotal role as the official regulator and facilitator of coastal tourism in the Red Sea region, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Heritage Commission. The Heritage Commission is entrusted with the responsibility of regulating and nurturing the heritage sector across the Kingdom. The primary objective of this MoU is to establish a comprehensive framework for cooperation in areas where their jurisdictions intersect.
This MoU is closely aligned with SRSA's core mission, which involves the issuance of licenses and permits while overseeing navigational and marine activities. Additionally, it underscores SRSA's commitment to fostering collaboration and exchanging experiences with both regional and international entities. Furthermore, the agreement aims to bolster navigational and marine tourism activities in the Red Sea to attract a targeted audience of practitioners.
Representing SRSA in the signing ceremony was Acting CEO Mohammed Al-Asiri, while the Heritage Commission was represented by CEO Dr. Jasser bin Suleiman Al-Harbash. The MoU encompasses various aspects, including the exchange of experiences pertinent to the underwater cultural heritage of the Red Sea.
Moreover, the memorandum outlines joint efforts in proposing regulations, monitoring requirements for issuing marine and underwater heritage surveys and excavation permits, implementing measures to safeguard marine heritage, and extending support for documenting marine and submerged heritage in the Red Sea. Technical cooperation is also emphasized to achieve mutual objectives.
Furthermore, the MoU extends cooperation into the realm of intangible cultural heritage, encompassing support for registering sites within SRSA's jurisdiction on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It also involves the exchange of data and information on such sites, coordinating community awareness programs, and launching initiatives to promote cultural heritage assets and marine heritage as intangible cultural heritage. Additionally, it includes marine tourism and recreational activities.
This memorandum signifies SRSA's dedication to expanding strategic partnerships, sharing expertise, and adopting best practices to advance coastal tourism and enable sustainable development. Furthermore, it underscores the potential of the Red Sea as a global tourist destination while emphasizing the preservation and protection of the natural environment. Importantly, it aligns with the Kingdom's overarching vision outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to consolidate its pivotal position as a key cultural hub.
