Author’s Note: If you have ever tried to plan a maritime trip to a new destination, you know the frustration of hunting for permit rules across a dozen different websites. The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) just fixed this problem for the Red Sea coast.
What is the SRSA Introductory Guide to Coastal Tourism?
The Introductory Guide to Coastal Tourism Activities is a new, centralized digital platform launched by the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) that consolidates all regulations, procedures, and permits for coastal tourism into a single electronic reference.
For years, information about sailing or investing in the Red Sea could feel fragmented. This new guide eliminates that confusion. Instead of visiting multiple government websites to figure out entry requirements or safety rules, you now have one “single source of truth.”
This digital gateway is designed for three specific groups:
- Tourists: Travelers looking to explore the coast.
- Yacht Owners/Practitioners: Captains and crews navigating the waters.
- Investors: Businesses looking to set up tourism operations.
The Focus on Yachting: A Step-by-Step Roadmap
The first released series of the guide is dedicated entirely to yachting activities, providing an end-to-end pathway for a yacht’s journey from arrival to departure.
If you are bringing a yacht into Saudi waters, this guide effectively acts as your operations manual. The SRSA has structured the guide to cover the entire lifecycle of your visit.
1. Arrival and Departure Made Simple
The guide lays out exactly how to handle the logistics of entering the country via sea. It details the mechanisms for identifying your port of entry (whether a specific port or marina) and confirms the process for working with licensed agents.
2. Documentation and Permits in One Place
Paperwork is often the biggest hurdle in maritime travel. The guide lists the updated requirements for:
- Vessel licenses.
- Crew documentation.
- Navigation permits.
3. Access to Approved Service Providers
You do not need to guess which local companies are legitimate. The guide includes directories of approved:
- Maritime tourism agents.
- Yacht charter companies.
- Marinas.
How the “Smart Link” Feature Saves You Time
The guide uses a direct digital referral system that automatically redirects users to the specific government platform needed to complete a task.
This is a massive time-saver. When you read a requirement in the guide (for example, applying for a specific permit), the guide provides a “smart link.” Clicking this takes you directly to the official implementation platform of the competent authority responsible for that service. This creates a smooth workflow where you learn what you need and immediately get sent to where you get it.
Safety, Sustainability, and Advisory
Beyond logistics, the guide provides clear advisory-based guidance on permitted and prohibited practices to ensure environmental protection and passenger safety.
The Red Sea is a fragile ecosystem. The guide outlines the environmental sustainability guidelines you must follow to protect the coral reefs and marine life. It also covers safety protocols to ensure beneficiary protection.
If you run into issues, the guide even clarifies the mechanisms for:
- Submitting feedback.
- Handling complaints.
- Contacting relevant authorities.
Why This Matters for Saudi Vision 2030
This launch represents a foundational move to open the Red Sea to global tourism, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal to foster an attractive investment and tourism environment.
By removing the “information gap,” the SRSA is making the region accessible. Abdullah S. Alyabisi and the SRSA team developed this through intensive coordination with other government entities. The goal is to ensure that whether you are a tourist or an investor, your journey is transparent and predictable.
Where to Access the Red Sea Yacht Activity Guide?
You can access the full details and start planning your maritime journey immediately. The guide is available as a digital web page.
Access the official guide here: Yacht Activity Guide (Note: Please verify the specific URL from the official SRSA press release if not directly hyperlinked).
Quick Summary for Travelers
| Feature | Benefit |
| Centralized Info | No more searching multiple websites for basic rules. |
| Smart Links | One-click access to apply for the permits you need. |
| Yacht Focus | Specific steps for docking, arrival, and departure. |
| Verified List | Access to approved marinas and charter companies. |
How do I get a permit to sail a yacht in the Saudi Red Sea?
To obtain a yacht permit for the Saudi Red Sea, you must apply through the Saudi Red Sea Authority’s (SRSA) new digital guide. The platform centralizes applications for both the Navigational License (issued by the General Transport Authority) and the Technical License for Leisure Tourism. You will need to submit your vessel’s registration, crew documentation, and insurance details directly through the portal’s “smart links,” which connect you to the relevant government authorities.
What is the best time of year to visit the Red Sea for yachting?
The best time to visit the Saudi Red Sea for yachting is between October and April. During these months, the weather is pleasant with air temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F–82°F), making it ideal for sailing and on-deck activities. While the summer months (May to September) offer excellent underwater visibility for divers, temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), which can be uncomfortable for leisure sailing.
Do I need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia by sea?
Yes, all international passengers and crew entering Saudi Arabia by sea require a valid visa. Tourists can apply for the Saudi e-Visa or Maritime Transit Visa online prior to arrival. The e-Visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for one year. Yacht crews may require specific crew visas depending on their nationality and employment status; the new SRSA guide provides direct links to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for these specific applications.
Where can I dock my yacht in the Saudi Red Sea?
You can dock your yacht at several approved ports and marinas, including Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdullah Port, and the Yanbu Commercial Port. For leisure yachts, Red Sea Marina in North Obhur (Jeddah) is a premier destination offering 300 berths for vessels up to 60 meters. The SRSA guide includes a comprehensive directory of all approved marinas and “ports of entry” to ensure you plan your arrival correctly.
Are there restrictions on where I can sail in the Red Sea?
Yes, there are restrictions. You are generally free to navigate the Red Sea coast, but you must avoid military zones and stay at least 10km away from the southern border with Yemen due to safety advisories. Additionally, certain sensitive marine environments may have anchoring restrictions to protect coral reefs. Always check the “advisory-based guidance” section in the SRSA digital guide for the latest prohibited zones before charting your course.
How much does a Saudi yachting license cost?
The cost for permits varies based on the size of your vessel and the duration of your stay. While specific fees are updated dynamically on the portal, you should budget for the Tourism Charter License fee and a separate fee for the Technical License. Standard tourist e-visas for passengers cost approximately SAR 440 (roughly $117 USD), which includes mandatory health insurance. The new guide provides a transparent fee breakdown during the application process.
Can I rent a yacht in Saudi Arabia if I don’t own one?
Yes, you can rent yachts through approved yacht charter companies listed in the SRSA guide. The authority regulates these providers to ensure safety and quality. Prices vary significantly; a small leisure boat might cost around SAR 1,750 ($460 USD) per hour, while luxury superyachts can cost over $100,000 per week. Always ensure your charter provider holds a valid “Tourism Charter License” from the SRSA.
What are the rules for scuba diving in the Saudi Red Sea?
To scuba dive in the Saudi Red Sea, you generally need a PADI Open Water certification (or equivalent) and must be medically fit to dive. If you are diving with a local operator, they will require proof of certification and may ask you to sign a medical liability release. The Red Sea is a protected marine environment, so the removal of coral, shells, or marine life is strictly prohibited and punishable by fines.
What is the “Smart Link” feature in the new SRSA guide?
The “Smart Link” feature is a digital tool that connects the SRSA guide directly to other government platforms. Instead of just telling you that you need a visa or a customs clearance, the guide provides a clickable link that takes you instantly to the specific application page of the agency responsible (like the Ministry of Interior or Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority). This eliminates the need to search the web for the correct forms.
Is the SRSA guide for tourists or investors?
The SRSA guide is designed for both. It serves tourists by providing clear pathways for entry, safety rules, and lists of places to visit. Simultaneously, it serves investors and practitioners (like marina owners and charter companies) by clarifying the regulations for operating a coastal tourism business, obtaining commercial licenses, and adhering to environmental standards required by Saudi Vision 2030.