Saudi authorities have given Sharqia Development Authority (Sharqia) the go-ahead for the Misk Tarout master plan for Darin and Tarout Island.

The master plan was developed by Sharqia in cooperation with the Tarout and Darin Island Development Foundation and Al Seif Real Estate Company, said a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The approval opens the door for new urban, economic and environmental development projects in the Eastern Region.

Eastern Region Governor and Chairman of the Sharqia Development Authority Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz said the approval marked an advanced stage in the development of the islands, and would help integrate economic, urban and environmental considerations.

The master plan aims to unlock development and investment opportunities on the islands, while creating a planning and regulatory framework for sustainable projects, the SPA report said citing Sharqia officials.

Sharqia Acting CEO Talal bin Nabil Almaghlouth said the master plan would support investors by providing a framework aimed at turning investment opportunities into viable and sustainable projects, while improving investment efficiency and confidence in the Eastern Region.