In the next step towards opening up the region as an international yachting destination, the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA), in collaboration with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, released a procedural guide for the temporary entry of foreign tourist marine vessels into Saudi Arabian waters.
The temporary entry regime allows any vessel to enter Saudi Arabia for a six-month (180-day) period. This goes into effect immediately and includes “cruise ships, yachts, mega yachts, pleasure boats and vessels, diving boats and vessels, marine tank vessels, recreational submarines, and personal marine vessels”, and sailing ships (including catamarans).
The guide divides the types of pleasure crafts into three categories. Human-powered watercrafts up to a length of 9 meters, sailing yachts less than 24 and over 24 meters, and motor yachts less than 12 meters, between 12 and 24 meters and over 24 meters. For sailing and motor yachts, the duration of the scheme is up to 12 months and is subject to renewal for the same length. This scheme applies to any tourist transiting within the Kingdom and any maritime vessels flying a foreign flag.
Vessels entering the Kingdom for the purposes of exhibition are eligible for temporary admission, subject to regulations. this applies to vessels of any size and type. The scheme, however, does not apply to cargo ships, research vessels, water taxis, and fishing and power boats for racing.