Jeddah, November 26, 2024 – In a landmark development for Saudi Arabia’s coastal tourism sector, the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has granted the first-ever marina operator license to the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, owned by Sela, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This significant achievement marks a milestone in the Kingdom's efforts to develop and regulate its burgeoning coastal tourism industry. The license was officially presented by Eng. Mohammed Bukhari, Vice President of Coastal Tourism Operations at SRSA, to Eng. Amer Daggag, Head of Destinations at Sela, during a ceremony at the Yacht Club's headquarters in Jeddah.
The issuance of this license is part of SRSA’s broader strategy to establish a vibrant and sustainable coastal tourism sector along the Red Sea. This initiative aims to boost Saudi Arabia’s status as a leading global destination for marine tourism and leisure activities. With a clear focus on attracting investment and fostering industry growth, the SRSA has put in place a robust regulatory framework designed to guide the development, management, and operation of marinas throughout the region. The guidelines encompass all aspects of marina operations, from construction to daily management, ensuring that each facility meets high standards of quality and safety.
SRSA’s commitment to advancing the coastal tourism sector aligns with its broader vision to create a world-class tourism experience that attracts both international and domestic visitors. The authority’s work goes beyond issuing licenses and permits; it is focused on creating an integrated ecosystem that supports the growth of the marine tourism industry while preserving the natural beauty of the Red Sea. This includes the development of necessary infrastructure, the establishment of policies and strategies to guide sustainable growth, and a strong emphasis on environmental conservation to protect the marine ecosystem.
Since its inception in 2021, the SRSA has worked tirelessly to lay the foundation for a dynamic and thriving coastal tourism industry. Through a series of initiatives, the authority has sought to encourage private sector involvement, particularly by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and creating a favorable investment climate for stakeholders. SRSA’s vision also includes promoting navigational and marine tourism activities, which are expected to significantly contribute to the national economy by creating jobs, driving tourism revenues, and enhancing Saudi Arabia's appeal as a premier travel destination.
The issuance of the marina operator license to the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina underscores the Kingdom's ambitious plans to develop its coastal tourism sector and boost its tourism offerings, especially in light of Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the Saudi economy and establish the country as a top global tourist destination. The Jeddah Yacht Club, with its strategic location and luxurious facilities, is poised to become a flagship project that highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding its tourism infrastructure and promoting high-quality leisure experiences for both locals and international visitors.
For more details about the Saudi Red Sea Authority and its initiatives, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official website at [www.redsea.gov.sa](http://www.redsea.gov.sa).