Saudi Arabia has once again suspended sailing permits for recreational vessels in the waters off Ahsa and Qatif, in eastern Saudi Arabia on the Persian Gulf coast, shortly after reinstating them following the announcement of a temporary ceasefire in the region.

The initial ban was imposed days before the outbreak of the war last February. It was later lifted after the ceasefire was announced, before being reimposed.

Under the procedures enforced by the Saudi authorities in Ahsa and Qatif Governorates, owners of privately owned recreational vessels are required to obtain a sailing permit each time they intend to go to sea, via a designated online platform.

Through the “Zawil” platform, vessel owners must submit a sailing request before departure, specifying the number of passengers, the duration of the voyage, and the points of departure and return.

Saudi Arabia has exempted fishing vessels from the suspension, although they remain subject to strict regulatory controls.

The coastline of Ahsa and Qatif extends along Saudi Arabia’s eastern Persian Gulf coast, from the border with Kuwait in the north to the border with the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in the south.