Accredited programs for training in tank and marine boat operation in the Kingdom

The Public Transport Authority in Saudi Arabia announced the adoption of a new package of specialized training programs, primarily aimed at qualifying pilots of jet skis and marine vessels of various sizes. This strategic step comes in response to the growing demand for recreational and commercial maritime activities, while ensuring the application of the highest standards of safety and navigational security within the Kingdom's territorial waters, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 for developing the transport and logistics sector.

The historic transformation in the organization of the Saudi maritime transport sector

Over the past years, the maritime transport sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has witnessed rapid development thanks to its strategic geographical location along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coasts. The ongoing need to regulate recreational and tourism maritime activities has necessitated the establishment of stringent regulatory frameworks to ensure the safety of beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The launch of these training programs is part of a series of landmark initiatives led by the Public Transport Authority to license and qualify national talent, bridging the training gap in this vital sector, which is experiencing unprecedented growth with the launch of major coastal projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea Projects.

Details of approved programs for training tank and marine boat operators

The authority explained that the approved programs were carefully divided to take into account the technical and operational differences between the various types of marine units, and their details are as follows:

• The Marine Tanks (Jet Ski) Program: This specialized training program extends for up to 240 training hours, spread over four intensive days, to enable trainees to achieve complete control and safe driving.
• The program for boats less than 12 meters in length: The Authority has allocated up to 300 training hours spread over five days for this program, to ensure the acquisition of all the basic skills for near-shore navigation.
• The program for boats ranging in length from 12 to 24 meters: Due to the size of these boats and their complex operational requirements, a 60-hour training program has been allocated over ten full days to ensure professional qualification.

All these programs share the common feature of providing basic safety courses as a mandatory and non-negotiable requirement for obtaining the final license.

Training topics and acquired skills

The accredited training packages encompass a wide range of theoretical and practical modules designed to build comprehensive navigational capabilities. These modules include the application of international maritime safety requirements, an introduction to the fundamentals of maritime navigation and chart reading, and the development of crowd management and emergency response skills in diverse aquatic environments. The training also places a strong emphasis on direct, hands-on practice on the water, enabling trainees to effectively navigate currents and waves, while maintaining a thorough understanding of local maritime laws and regulations to avoid violations and fines.

Expected impact of training programs at the local and regional levels

These training programs are expected to bring about a qualitative shift at both the local and regional levels. Locally, this step will reduce the rate of maritime accidents resulting from a lack of experience and enhance the appeal of coastal tourism as a safe environment for families and tourists. Regionally and internationally, raising navigational efficiency and adhering to international standards will strengthen the Kingdom's position as a leading maritime center that complies with international conventions issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), thus supporting a sustainable blue economy and opening new horizons for investments in the maritime tourism and leisure sector.