The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has signed two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during the recent Saudi Tourism Forum 2024, solidifying its commitment to developing a thriving and sustainable coastal tourism industry.
These partnerships aim to enhance regulations, environmental protection, training, and infrastructure, ultimately positioning the Red Sea as a premier global tourism destination.
The first MoU, signed with the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), focuses on establishing a dedicated coastal tourism command center in Riyadh. This center will serve as a nerve center for environmental monitoring, security, safety, and tourism management, ensuring responsible and sustainable practices across the Red Sea coast.
Additionally, the collaboration includes mooring buoy project which includes installation, supply, monitoring, and maintenance of mooring buoys along the Red Sea that will promote responsible anchoring and protect sensitive marine ecosystems.
It also involves implementing effective waste management and recycling systems in tourism facilities and sites, which will minimise environmental impact and contribute to a cleaner Red Sea.
The second MoU, signed with the National Maritime Academy (NMA), prioritizes human resource development in the coastal tourism sector. Through tailored training programs and consulting studies, the NMA will equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in fields related to sustainable marine protection, marine tourism, and recreational activities.
These MoUs align with the SRSA’s larger vision of promoting regenerative tourism in the Red Sea region. By prioritising environmental protection, responsible development, and community engagement, the SRSA aims to create a thriving tourism industry that benefits both local communities and the natural environment.
While the first MoU was signed by the Acting CEO of SRSA, Mohammed Al-Asiri, and CEO of SIRC, Eng. Ziyad Al-Shiha, whereas the second MoU was signed by the Head of the Partnerships at SRSA, Prince Saud Al Saud, and the Managing Director of the National Maritime Academy, Capt. Turki Alshehri.
