Protecting the coastline and growing the Kingdom’s economy 
The Saudi Red Sea Authority recently launched the “More Than a Sea” campaign.
It focuses on four main goals, highlighting the authority’s role in fostering sustainable coastal tourism; attracting local and international investment through regulations; sustainability efforts; and enhanced tourism experiences along the Red Sea.
The campaign emphasizes the importance of coastal tourism in contributing to the Kingdom’s non-oil gross domestic product and creating job opportunities for Saudi nationals.
The campaign also outlines the authority’s responsibility in regulating marine tourism activities, issuing permits, and developing infrastructure to support these sectors.
Notably, the authority has issued eight regulations in collaboration with relevant entities to further regulate coastal tourism and attract investment to the Red Sea, which boasts unique features.
These include a population of 7 million along its 1,800 km coastline and rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, all of which contribute to a thriving coastal tourism environment.
By 2030, the Saudi Red Sea Authority aims to contribute SR85 billion ($22.7 billion) to the non-oil GDP, while increasing tourism spending to SR123 billion and creating 210,000 jobs.
The campaign highlights efforts to promote various coastal activities such as cruises, yachting, diving, snorkeling, and beach recreation, encouraging visitors to explore the Red Sea’s attractions.
Moreover, the campaign underscores the authority’s commitment to environmental protection and leading initiatives, in collaboration with public and private sectors to safeguard marine ecosystems. These include promoting the blue economy, preserving natural resources, creating nautical maps, managing marine waste, and establishing weather stations.
The Red Sea coast features over 150 beaches, 1,000 islands, and 130 cultural, historic, and biological sites.
The awareness campaign aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, supporting efforts to diversify the economy. By 2030, the authority aims to contribute SR85 billion ($22.7 billion) to the non-oil GDP, while increasing tourism spending to SR123 billion and creating 210,000 jobs.
Established in 2021, the Saudi Red Sea Authority’s key objectives are to regulate the coastal tourism sector, issue licenses, develop policies, and preserve the marine environment, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification.
• Talat Zaki Hafiz is an economist and financial analyst. X: @TalatHafiz
