The Maritime Counterterrorism Governance Mechanisms in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) mechanisms for combating maritime terrorism are inadequate, with current governance structures and laws insufficiently developed to address threats effectively and fairly. This thesis critically examines KSA’s policies, laws, and institutional mechanisms for countering maritime terrorism, with a particular focus on maritime cybersecurity, submarine critical infrastructure, and port operations, assessing their effectiveness and fairness. Through documentary analysis and fieldwork interviews, this research identifies key gaps in legal frameworks, policy implementation, and institutional deficiencies that hinder KSA’s ability to effectively and fairly counter maritime terrorism.

A central challenge lies in the role of Sharia within KSA’s legal system and the interpretative difficulties it presents in addressing maritime terrorism. Since Sharia does not explicitly address maritime terrorism, legal ambiguities arise that affect the enforcement of modern counterterrorism laws. The reliance on Sharia, rather than specific responses to contemporary security needs, has resulted in governance gaps, limiting KSA’s ability to respond comprehensively to maritime threats.

Another significant factor identified in this research pertains to challenges in KSA’s maritime strategy and policy framework. The absence of a comprehensive and transparent maritime strategy, along with fragmented sectoral policies, has created challenges in addressing emerging threats such as maritime terrorism. The lack of cohesion in strategy, insufficient coordination with the private sector, and inconsistent enforcement of existing policies further limit the country’s ability to effectively and fairly counter maritime terrorism.

In addition to identifying the factors contributing to the shortcomings in maritime counterterrorism governance mechanisms in KSA, this thesis proposes reforms to enhance KSA’s policy, law, and institutional frameworks. These recommendations draw insights from the governance experiences of the UK, which form the basis for policy transfer to strengthen KSA’s maritime counterterrorism governance mechanisms.