Kitesurfing is witnessing growing popularity among marine sports in Saudi Arabia, benefiting from the natural assets of Saudi coasts, particularly on the Red Sea.
The sport combines surfing and paragliding, with kitesurfers relying on a kite that harnesses wind power to propel the board, requiring balance, control, and the ability to read wind directions, alongside adherence to safety standards. Technical advances in kite, board, and safety system design have made the sport easier and safer, encouraging its spread across age groups and the establishment of specialized training schools and centers led by certified instructors. Several coastal destinations, most notably Jeddah, Thuwal, Yanbu, and Umluj, are seeing increased kitesurfing activity.
The sport contributes to boosting tourism by attracting visitors and supporting related economic activities such as training centers, equipment rental, hospitality, and entertainment events, enhancing the diversity of experience- and adventure-based tourism products.
A kitesurfer said the sport has attracted growing numbers of enthusiasts, describing the Red Sea as among the world’s best destinations for kitesurfing thanks to its stable winds and long coastlines.
Saudi Arabia is keeping pace with this growth by developing marine tourism infrastructure, launching quality projects along the Red Sea, and expanding the hosting of international sporting events, strengthening its position as a leading water sports destination.
Source: Riyadh Daily