Saudi Blue Economy to Generate SR22 Billion, 100,000 Jobs by 2030

Saudi Arabia’s blue economy is on track to become a major driver of growth, with projections showing it will contribute SR22 billion to the Kingdom’s GDP and generate 100,000 new jobs by 2030. The figures, released by the National Center for Wildlife, highlight the growing importance of sustainable marine and coastal industries in Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification plans.

The blue economy encompasses a wide range of activities linked to the sea, including fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, tourism, and renewable energy. Saudi Arabia’s 3,800-kilometre coastline along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf positions it as a regional leader in marine resources and logistics. The government’s Vision 2030 strategy has placed a strong emphasis on harnessing these assets, with new investments targeting both traditional sectors like fishing and emerging fields such as marine biotechnology and offshore renewables.

Recent years have seen a series of initiatives aimed at boosting the sector’s contribution. These include the development of new ports, expansion of aquaculture projects, and the launch of marine conservation programmes. The National Center for Wildlife has also underscored the need for sustainable practices to ensure long-term growth, with a focus on balancing economic development and environmental protection.

The projected job creation is expected to benefit a wide range of professions, from marine scientists and engineers to hospitality workers and logistics specialists. The government’s plans also include training and upskilling programmes to prepare the workforce for new opportunities in the sector.