Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has launched the National Red Sea Sustainability Strategy, a comprehensive plan designed to protect the region’s marine environment while driving economic growth.

As part of Saudi Vision 2030, the strategy prioritizes the conservation of the Red Sea’s diverse ecosystems, including its world-class coral reefs. The initiative focuses on advancing research, innovation, and environmental sustainability, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to unleash its enormous economic, geographical, and cultural potential and its pioneering efforts in sustainability and environmental conservation,” said the Crown Prince, who also serves as prime minister and chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs.  

He described the strategy as a step toward positioning the Red Sea as a global benchmark for blue economy activities and establishing Saudi Arabia as a leader in marine research, development, and innovation.

The strategy outlines initiatives to preserve the Red Sea’s marine resources while promoting key industries such as ecotourism, fisheries, renewable energy, and water desalination. Key targets include expanding protected marine and coastal areas from 3% to 30%, achieving 50% renewable energy in the energy mix, and creating jobs within the blue economy by 2030.

By safeguarding coastal tourism investments, the strategy also aims to bolster economic contributions from the Red Sea while enhancing community resilience.

This initiative forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to integrate environmental conservation into its economic framework while advancing its marine-based industries.