Red Sea Global Restores 13 Traditional Sailboats in Saudi Arabia to Preserve Maritime Heritage

Red Sea Global has launched a comprehensive initiative to restore traditional wooden sailboats in Umluj, Saudi Arabia, preserving the region's maritime heritage. The project identified 13 vessels in various states of disrepair, with 11 undergoing meticulous restoration using traditional methods while two were replaced with new builds for training purposes. Local craftsmen led the restoration process through a 12-step traditional method that included water immersion, wood replacement, sailcloth repair, and protective painting. Senior fisherman Ameen Sanosi, sheikh of Umluj's fishing community, expressed both nostalgia for vanishing boat types like the sanbuk cargo ships and zarouk fishing vessels and hope for their revival. The National Commission for Education, Science and Culture collaborated with UNESCO to document this intangible cultural heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities through cultural tourism. In January 2024, the restored sailboats were publicly exhibited at Umluj's Souq Amerah during weekly cultural events featuring traditional music, dance, and crafts. The initiative represents a nationwide movement to safeguard Red Sea maritime traditions while generating socio-economic benefits for local communities through water taxis and sailing experiences.