Saudi Border Guard Celebrates 115 Years of Exceptional Journey

Saudi Press Agency (SPA)19.12.2024 Security
Saudi Border Guard Celebrates 115 Years of Exceptional Journey

Saudi Border Guard Celebrates 115 Years of Exceptional Journey

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The Saudi Border Guard has stood as the first line of defence for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s borders since King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud laid the foundation for building the Kingdom and unified its territory through a historical journey.

This legacy ensures that all who live in Saudi Arabia enjoy security, safety, prosperity, and the benefits of development, continuing through the reign of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The Border Guard’s 115-year journey began at Al-Uqair Port in Al-Ahsa Province, Eastern Region, in 1331 AH (1912). Small sailing boats, supported by camel patrols, patrolled the coastline to secure and monitor the coasts, protect them from threats at the time, and provide humanitarian aid in emergencies, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said in a statement.

In 1344 AH (1925), the first formal entity for coastal and port surveillance was established in Jeddah under the name “Coastal Guard Authority.” It utilized basic means such as patrolling on foot and by camel in the desert and traditional maritime vessels like Sanbuks and Hawaris to monitor territorial waters, inspect, and prevent the smuggling of contraband.

In 1347 AH (1928), the Border Guard expanded its scope by unifying patrol, port, and harbour operations in Jeddah under a single leadership known as the “Coastal Guard Authority of Jeddah,” encompassing coastal protection and security. A significant organizational shift occurred in 1350 AH (1931), consolidating all border security entities under the name “Coastal and Port Guard Authority.” This entity became the Kingdom’s first line of defense for its borders and ports.

By 1355 AH (1936), the Border Guard further developed its operations to enhance security coverage across the Kingdom’s land and maritime borders. A Coastal Guard Authority was established in the Eastern Region. In 1383 AH (1963), the Eastern and Western Region authorities were unified under the name “General Directorate of Border and Coastal Guard and Ports,” forming a single sector under the Ministry of Interior.

The Border Guard assumed additional responsibilities through progressive strides, such as combating smuggling, protecting vital infrastructure, and participating in search and rescue operations. With the issuance of the Border Security Law in 1394 AH (1974), its duties expanded to meet the increasing demands of national security. In 1414 AH (1993), its name was officially changed to the “General Directorate of Border Guard,” which remains its official title today - a testament to its deep-rooted history and enduring contributions to national development and border protection.

Today, during the Kingdom’s glorious historical era, the General Directorate of Border Guard stands tall as a cornerstone of the Ministry of Interior’s sectors and a pioneering model in securing Saudi Arabia’s land and maritime borders, safeguarding national interests, and utilizing advanced technologies. It is bolstered by world-class Saudi-made systems, such as the Zali electronic surveillance system and the Dahna land vehicle, supported by highly skilled personnel who actively contribute to the Kingdom’s progress and community service. 

 



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