Saudi Arabia is introducing mandatory regulations for tourists and operators of Red Sea beaches, a digital guide and new safety and environmental standards from January 1, 2026. Learn about the key changes for tourists

From January 1, 2026, Saudi Arabia will introduce new rules for visitors to the Red Sea beaches. The initiative is designed to ensure a safe and comfortable vacation, protect the environment and develop coastal tourism as part of the “Vision 2030” program.

This article will tell you about the main changes for tourists from Germany, France, the USA, Canada, China and other countries in Saudi Arabia.

Discovering a new country for yourself without the help of travel agents or other intermediaries is very easy. Just use the travel guide from Visit World - a step-by-step instruction that contains all the necessary information for a safe and comfortable trip.

Find out how to easily prepare for your trip and avoid unforeseen situations using the travel guide from Visit World.

Basic rules for vacationers in Saudi Arabia

From January 1, 2026, vacationers in Saudi Arabia must adhere to the following requirements:

- Swimwear is allowed only on the beach; outside it, it is mandatory to wear closed clothing (light tunics, T-shirts and long pants).

- It is forbidden to appear completely naked or in excessively revealing clothing.

- Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

- Loud music and parties are limited, priority is given to family vacations.

- Cleanliness is mandatory; fines are provided for littering and harming the environment.

- Photographing or filming other people is possible only with their permission.

Tourists are recommended to clarify the rules on a specific beach through a digital guide to avoid misunderstandings and fines.

Mandatory regulations for beach operators in Saudi Arabia

The Red Sea Region Authority (SRSA) has introduced standards for beach operators, which include:

- Lifeguard presence and emergency response plans.

- Clean and well-maintained facilities, compliance with public health regulations.

- Environmental measures for waste disposal and protection of marine environments.

- Accessibility for people with disabilities and compliance with building and zoning regulations.

This regulatory framework makes the rules mandatory, unlike many other countries where beach certification is voluntary.

Also read: Saudi Arabia launches revolutionary digital visa application system – Visa by Profile. We have already told you how the new format of instant e-visas for Visa cardholders works, who will be able to use simplified access to the Kingdom, when the program starts, as well as what benefits, requirements and practical tips should be considered before traveling

Digital guide to coastal tourism in Saudi Arabia

Along with the rules, SRSA has launched a digital platform for tourists and investors. It includes:

- Interactive maps of beaches with designated areas for swimming, water sports and recreation.

- Information on licensing beach activities and contact details of official authorities.

- Practical advice on yachting, arrival and departure procedures.

A directory of approved service providers, marinas and tour operators. Available in English and Arabic, so that tourists from other countries can conveniently plan their vacation.

The platform allows you to quickly get up-to-date data and reduce the time spent searching for information on different sites.

Ecology and safety of beach holidays in Saudi Arabia

The new rules are also aimed at protecting the environment:

- Prohibition of leaving garbage, especially plastic and hazardous waste.

- Creation of special containers for separate collection of garbage.

- Protection of marine habitats and control over the activities of tour operators.

Such measures will help preserve the unique nature of the Red Sea and ensure the long-term attractiveness of resorts.

Beach reforms are part of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to develop coastal tourism as one of the key economic sectors. The Red Sea coast has been identified as a strategically important region to attract millions of tourists and investment.

Popular beaches and resorts such as Jeddah, Al Litt and new investment projects are becoming centers of development of marine tourism, including yachting, diving and family holidays. Clear rules and a digital guide increase tourist confidence and simplify trip planning.

Planning a trip to the Red Sea beaches in Saudi Arabia? The tourist guide from Visit World will help you prepare for the new beach holiday regulations, the SRSA digital guide and the tourist visa application. In the guide you will find:

- Step-by-step instructions for applying for a tourist visa: from filling out the application form to going through an interview.

- Information about the visa fee and application processing time.

- Examples and photos of a tourist visa to avoid mistakes during processing.

- Rules for filling out a visa application form and tips for processing documents.

- Life hacks for travel and beach holidays: family vacations, water sports, yachting and safe spending time on the coast.

- A complete list of documents required for applying for a tourist visa.

Learn how to prepare for a trip and enjoy your vacation without unpleasant surprises using a tourist guide from Visit World.

Recall! In December 2025, Winter Wonderland opened in Jeddah - a large-scale winter location with attractions, an ice rink and fairs. We have already told you how Saudi Arabia is developing winter tourism and what awaits travelers.

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