New Rules for Red Sea Recreational Boat Rentals

The Saudi Red Sea Authority has issued new requirements governing recreational boat-rental activities, setting clear licensing, safety, and consumer-protection standards for marine tourism operators. The rules enter into force 180 days after their publication.

Under the new framework, any operator offering marine tourism must hold a Marine Activities Operator Licence from the Authority, while each recreational boat requires a separate Tourism Charter Licence. Before that charter licence is issued, the boat must pass an on-site technical inspection carried out by an accredited company. Applications are submitted electronically through the Authority's platform by the licensed operator, and required documents include the boat's registration certificate issued by the Transport General Authority.

The published fee schedule lists SAR 4,000 for a Tourism Charter Licence with a maximum validity of six calendar months. However, the new recreational boat-chartering requirements refer to a 12-month licence period, so operators should confirm the applicable fee and validity directly with the Authority.

Safety and transparency

Operators must provide pre-trip safety instructions and keep emergency plans available in both Arabic and English. Before booking, they must disclose the trip duration, route, departure and return points, activities, prices, cancellation terms, and refund policy, and they may not impose any undisclosed charges.

The rules also require visitor insurance coverage, suitable communication arrangements for non-Arabic speakers, a clear complaints process, and information about accessibility for persons with disabilities. Operations are limited to marine destinations and areas approved by the Authority, and operators must protect coral reefs and marine biodiversity and avoid sailing in unsuitable sea or weather conditions.

For residents and visitors in the Red Sea region, the measures aim to make boat rentals safer and more transparent, giving customers clearer information up front while protecting the marine environment.

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