Saudi Arabia · Spearfishing zone
Ras Hatiba Protected Area
What this zone is
Overview
How spearfishing is treated at Ras Hatiba Protected Area.
Marine protected area on the western (Red Sea) coast of Saudi Arabia, northwest of Jeddah Governorate, Makkah Region, covering roughly 5,000-5,715 km2 and including eight marine islands. Designated by the National Center for Wildlife (announced 2025) to protect coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds that support green turtles, dugongs, whales, dolphins and sharks. As an NCW-designated protected area it falls under the Article 73(1) ban on fishing in protected areas, prohibiting spearfishing within it.
On the coast
Location
Approximate reference point for this zone. See the full picture on the interactive map.
21.9783°N, 38.9372°E
View on the mapSource
This zone is documented in the official source below.
Before you dive
License for Saudi Arabia
Whether you need a license to spearfish here, and how to get one.
Apply to a MEWA branch with: medical fitness certificate, ID/residence copy, a recognised diving certificate, photos and a signed liability undertaking (Article 88), plus security approval from the Ministry of Interior. Border Forces issue operating permits for diving/fishing equipment (Article 20).
Get your licenseOpens the official portal · mewa.gov.sa