In Q3 2025, Saudi Arabia’s tourism workforce surpassed 1 million, reflecting a 6.4% increase from 2024. This growth aligns with Vision 2030’s goal to boost tourism’s GDP contribution to 10%. Non-Saudi workers made up 75.7% of the workforce, while hotel occupancy rose to 49.1%, indicating a thriving sector.
The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has launched the first digital Introductory Guide to Coastal Tourism Activities, centralizing vital information for tourists, investors, and industry professionals. This comprehensive resource streamlines access to regulations and procedures, enhancing the coastal tourism sector and supporting Saudi Vision 2030’s growth objectives.
Saudi Arabia has launched limited airstrikes on Mukalla’s port in Yemen, alleging unauthorized military equipment shipments by the UAE. This escalation highlights the rivalry between the nations, each supporting different factions in Yemen’s conflict. The UAE denies wrongdoing, emphasizing a focus on counterterrorism amid rising tensions.
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has inaugurated a maritime technology centre in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, to foster innovation in smart systems, robotics, and AI. This initiative, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, aims to enhance local expertise and collaboration among industry stakeholders while addressing operational challenges in shipping.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Transport, Bimal Rathnayake, has invited Saudi Arabia to the International Maritime Summit in Colombo, aiming to enhance maritime cooperation. Discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Transport Minister focused on strengthening ties and exploring transport opportunities. The summit will address sustainability and innovation in the maritime sector, attracting various stakeholders.
India and Saudi Arabia have formed a Joint Working Group (JWG) to enhance maritime cooperation in shipping and logistics. This initiative, resulting from a high-level virtual meeting, is designed to improve bilateral relations, focusing on maritime trade, port infrastructure, and logistics, strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
The Philippine government confirmed that eight out of 21 seafarers from the MV Eternity C have safely arrived in Jizan, Saudi Arabia, following the vessel’s sinking by Houthi militants. The Department of Foreign Affairs is coordinating their care and repatriation, while prohibiting Filipino seafarers from entering the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Saudi Arabia has introduced its inaugural cruise ship regulations to elevate the Red Sea as a leading marine tourism destination. This initiative, part of Vision 2030, emphasizes safety, sustainability, and enhanced traveler experiences. Key features include a zero-discharge policy, improved port infrastructure, and streamlined licensing to attract foreign operators.
Saudi Arabia has officially approved Starlink satellite internet for maritime and aviation use, as announced by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on May 13. This endorsement enhances connectivity in these sectors. Additionally, Musk revealed plans for Tesla robotaxis in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom’s vision for advanced technology and infrastructure.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has opened a new office in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, enhancing its support for the Kingdom’s maritime and oil & gas sectors. This strategic expansion will improve service delivery to local clients, offering services like ship classification, inspections, and compliance audits, reinforcing IRS’s regional presence.
The new route launched by Folk Maritime after the India Red Sea service aims to strengthen trade ties with India by facilitating the movement of consumer goods, petrochemicals, and essential commodities. Ports like Mundra and Nhava Sheva play a crucial role in India’s trade activities, making the new route vital for enhancing economic relations.
The owner of the Saudi Arabian oil tanker denied being the target of a Houthi attack in the Red Sea. Despite being near another attacked ship, the Amjad remained undamaged. US Central Command confirmed the attacks on two oil tankers, including the Blue Lagoon I. The Houthis claimed responsibility for one attack but not the other.
KAUST has selected Freire Shipyards in Vigo, Spain, to build its new research vessel, RV Thuwal II, scheduled for completion in 2026. This vessel will be Saudi Arabia’s first regional class research vessel, providing access to the Red Sea for marine research. Designed by Glosten in the US, overseen by Maritime Survey International from Australia, RV Thuwal II will support various research interests and government ministries, strengthening the nation’s research capabilities.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan announced the re-designation of the Houthis as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group. This decision is a response to the militants’ attacks on US military forces and international maritime vessels. The aim is to hinder their access to funding and hold them accountable. The designation will be effective in 30 days.
