Legal Framework and Oversight
Through Royal Decree No. M/33 in 2018, the law delivers an extensive collection of maritime industry regulations and definitions. These regulations govern the country and are enforced by the Public Transport Authority (PTA), created specifically to implement the Commercial Maritime Law.
The Chairman of the Authority regulates the maritime sector throughout Saudi Arabia, ensuring supervision and enforcement of the law.
Jurisdiction and Applicability
The law applies to Saudi Arabian vessels and foreign vessels docking at Saudi ports. It does not apply to military or non-profit maritime craft, nor to rescue boats.
The Authority holds legal control over all maritime areas in the Kingdom, including:
- Internal waters
- Territorial sea
- Contiguous zone
- Exclusive economic zone (EEZ)
This comprehensive authority allows full regulatory power over all maritime operations within Saudi jurisdiction.
Vessel Nationality and Flag Requirements
A vessel acquires Saudi nationality in several ways:
- Full Saudi ownership
- Registration at a Saudi port
- Shared ownership where Saudi shares exceed or match Swiss shares
Every registered vessel must display the Saudi Arabian flag as its primary flag. Dual-state flag display is not permitted, except when required for safety and without legal effect.
Registration Requirements and Exemptions
The law sets clear registration rules for vessels. However, exemptions apply to:
- Vessels under 24 meters
- Fishing vessels less than 30 tons and under 20 meters
- Diving vessels under 10 tons and 11 meters
These vessels may remain within Saudi jurisdiction without standard registration.
See also: Resolving Maritime Disputes and Arbitration in Saudi Arabian Law
Provisional Registration and Ownership Transfers
A provisional registration certificate may be issued for:
- A single voyage
- Up to six months, extendable to two years
Saudi maritime companies can obtain this provisional registration either in the Kingdom or through its diplomatic missions abroad. If a vessel’s ownership changes outside Saudi Arabia, the new owner must apply for registration accordingly. An objection to a vessel’s registration may be filed before the judicial authority within 90 days.
To retrieve a lost certificate, the owner must provide evidence of the loss at the relevant registration office. A registration is revoked if the vessel is:
- Destroyed
- Captured
- Transferred to a non-Saudi owner
- Deregistered by owner request
Use of Foreign-Chartered Ships and Platforms
Foreign-chartered vessels performing one or more voyages must register under Saudi law before use. If registration is temporarily suspended, the vessel cannot display the Saudi flag during that period.
The Public Transport Authority also licenses marine platforms operating in Saudi waters. These platforms must:
- Meet full safety requirements
- Undergo inspections every five years
Saudi Arabia’s Maritime Development Vision
The legal system and the establishment of the Public Transport Authority reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building a regulated and thriving maritime sector. This regulatory framework has attracted increasing interest from local and international maritime corporations, further boosting the Kingdom’s maritime business development.
This article offers a general overview of the subject matter and is not a substitute for legal advice. For tailored guidance based on your specific circumstances, we recommend seeking professional consultation.
See also: Ship Registration and Flag State Control in Saudi Arabia
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FAQs
Yes, a vessel can be registered under Saudi Arabian law if Saudi ownership is equal to or greater than the foreign ownership. Shared ownership is allowed, but the Saudi share must be dominant unless other specific exceptions apply.
If a vessel violates Saudi maritime laws within the EEZ, the Public Transport Authority has the power to take enforcement actions, which may include fines, detention of the vessel, or revocation of operating licenses, depending on the severity of the violation.
No, small recreational vessels—especially those under the specified size and tonnage limits—may be exempt from standard commercial registration requirements, though they may still need permits or inspections for safety and compliance.
All goods shipped to Saudi Arabia must comply with the Kingdom’s import regulations, including proper documentation, conformity certificates, and customs clearance. Both the cargo and the transporting vessels must meet local standards set by Saudi Customs and the Public Transport Authority.
Yes. Shipping to Saudi Arabia from the USA is allowed, provided that all goods meet the Saudi import requirements, including product certification and registration when needed. It’s advisable to work with a licensed shipping company familiar with the Kingdom’s maritime and customs regulations.
Yes. Whether you’re shipping to Saudi Arabia from the USA or elsewhere, the transporting vessel must obtain prior approval from the Public Transport Authority. The cargo must also go through Saudi Customs for inspection and clearance before entering the Saudi marke
