Maritime Master
Meet the Master Auctioneer of Umluj city
Since he was around eight years old, Salem Mohammad Al Sayed has spent his life working in the sea, spending 12-13 days at a time out in the ocean.
Hailing from the city of Umluj on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, a short distance from The Red Sea destination, Salem describes how they used to navigate using only the stars and how they lived on fish almost exclusively.
He speaks of a time when sailing boats were more important than cars. Carpenters built many different kinds of boats, such as boats for racing and boats for cargo.
Salem won both the races he ever took part in, and won two cars and a sword as a result.
He now works as a Master Auctioneer in the Umluj fish market. He describes how Umluj has grown as a city since he was young, and how they are blessed with its progress.
Salem’s son Amer says he is hopeful for the future, particularly because of the new projects being developed in the area, such as The Red Sea, that he thinks will transform Umluj.
Master Auctioneer and fisherman Salem Mohammad Al Sayed
Master Auctioneer and fisherman Salem Mohammad Al Sayed
Model boat building in Umluj
Model boat building in Umluj
Salem in the midst of a fish auction
Salem in the midst of a fish auction
Salem and his son Amer reminisce over the past
Salem and his son Amer reminisce over the past
"Umluj is the best area on the Saudi coast, thanks to its sea treasures."
"We are hopeful for the future and the projects happening here. Something big and beautiful awaits Umluj."
"Red Sea Global is committed to providing opportunities for those living in close proximity to our destination, to ensure that these communities are among the first to benefit from the development."
"We have worked tirelessly to provide high-quality community development and social responsibility programs to create a long-lasting positive impact on the local community in Umluj."
About Umluj
Nestled on Saudi Arabia's stunning west coast, Umluj is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by international visitors. With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Umluj is an idyllic day trip for guests at The Red Sea's resorts.
Just under an hour's drive from The Red Sea, Umluj is a getaway for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the town's rich culture and history, and explore the vibrant local markets, where you can sample the region's delicious cuisine and enjoy traditional arts and crafts.
Every Friday for three months of the year, guests will have the opportunity to visit Amerah Souq in Umluj, which was launched as one of Red Sea Global's Socioeconomic Empowerment projects. It is the first market to highlight the authentic products of Umluj and aims to upskill local businesses by providing a direct market for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Distance by car from The Red Sea to Umluj (Click to open in Google Maps)
Distance by car from The Red Sea to Umluj. (Click to open in Google Maps)
Arts & craft boat-building in Umluj
Arts & craft boat-building in Umluj
Souq Amerah in Umluj, a Red Sea Global initiative
Souq Amerah in Umluj, a Red Sea Global initiative
A fisherman mends his nets at Souq Amerah
A fisherman mends his nets at Souq Amerah
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism, visiting Souq Amerah with Red Sea Global executives
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism, visiting Souq Amerah with Red Sea Global executives
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