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Red Sea winds fuel kitesurfing boom in Kingdom

Kitesurfing is growing in popularity among marine sports in Saudi Arabia, driven by the natural advantages of its coastlines, particularly along the Red Sea TurkicWorld reports via arabnews.

The sport combines surfing and paragliding, with riders using a kite to harness wind power and propel the board. It requires balance, control, the ability to read wind conditions, and strict adherence to safety standards.

Advances in kite, board, and safety system design have made the sport easier and safer, encouraging wider participation and the establishment of specialized training schools and centers led by certified instructors.

Several coastal destinations, including Jeddah, Thuwal, Yanbu, and Umluj, are seeing increased kitesurfing activity, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The sport is boosting tourism by attracting visitors and supporting related industries such as training centers, equipment rentals, hospitality, and entertainment, expanding experience- and adventure-based tourism offerings.

One kitesurfer said the sport is attracting more enthusiasts, describing the Red Sea as one of the world’s best kitesurfing destinations due to its stable winds and long coastline.

Saudi Arabia is supporting this growth by developing marine tourism infrastructure, launching projects along the Red Sea, and hosting more international sporting events, strengthening its position as a leading water sports destination.

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