Saudi Arabia has issued its first beach operator licence to Emaar, The Economic City (EEC), for Yam Beach in King Abdullah Economic City, marking a milestone in the regulation and development of the Kingdom’s coastal tourism sector.
The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) issued the licence
through its unified coastal tourism platform, in line with beach operator
requirements introduced in late 2025.
The new licensing framework establishes standards for beach
operations, visitor safety, accessibility and environmental protection, while
providing greater clarity for investors and private-sector operators.
Licensed operators must provide essential facilities, ensure access for people with disabilities and maintain certified lifeguard coverage throughout operating hours.
Requirements also include designated swimming areas
separated from marine activity zones, alongside comprehensive safety and
emergency evacuation plans.
Environmental safeguards form a key part of the framework.
Operators must implement waste management measures, monitor water and sand
quality, and protect marine habitats and wildlife to support the sustainable
management of coastal resources.
The licence follows coordination between SRSA, the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority (ECZA), which oversees King Abdullah Economic City, and private-sector stakeholders.
The collaboration aims to
improve beach readiness, raise service standards and strengthen the appeal of
Saudi Arabia’s coastal destinations to domestic and international visitors.
SRSA said its regulatory and enabling role is intended to
encourage private investment, expand coastal and marine tourism experiences,
and stimulate growth in related services and economic activities.
The initiative is also expected to support job creation and sustainable tourism development, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. -TradeArabia News Service