Cruise Saudi, a company fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and specialized in developing the Kingdom's cruise tourism sector, announced the signing of a contract with PC Marine Services company to develop a private island in the Red Sea as an exclusive destination for cruise-ship passengers. The announcement was made during a ceremony held at Cruise Saudi's headquarters in Jeddah. This project is a strategic step in Cruise Saudi's vision to enhance the cruise sector in the Kingdom, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the national economy and increase the contribution of tourism to gross domestic product (GDP). The new island will reflect authentic Saudi heritage through its design and diverse experiences, enhancing its status as the first of its kind in the Red Sea dedicated to cruise-ship passengers. It is expected to be ready to welcome visitors by December 2024, positioning itself as a unique and prominent destination on the Kingdom's cruise tourism map. T he project aims to offer tourists a diverse range of recreational activities, both coastal and aquatic, complemented by a variety of unique facilities and services designed to create unforgettable experiences for all visitors. Among the amenities planned are a welcome center, dining area, beach club, private villas, sunbathing spots, and more. During the initial phase, the island will have the capacity to host up to 2,000 guests. Cruise Saudi executive director of commercial and business development Mashhoor Baeshen said the project will significantly enhance the maritime tourism sector in the Kingdom, with the island poised to become a standout attraction for visitors exploring the Red Sea. PC Marine Services president and chief executive Adnan Alshareef highlighted that the new island initiative presents a valuable opportunity to contribute to the advancement of the Kingdom's maritime infrastructure, fostering growth within the maritime tourism sector in alignment with the goals of Vision 2030. PC Marine Services, a prominent player in the maritime project industry, has handled a diverse portfolio of significant projects, including the Obhur Waterfront Development project in Jeddah and the Cruise Berth Improvements project in Jeddah, Yanbu, and Dammam ports. Source: Saudi Press Agency