Saudi Arabia strengthens tourism regulations to ensure fair penalties and enhance visitor safety nationwide/Representative Image
The Ministry of Tourism’s new amendments introduce a more precise and fair system of penalties based on the size and location of tourism facilities. They also establish a clear distinction between major and non-major violations, offer grace periods for minor breaches, and enhance enforcement measures. These steps aim to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), protect visitor safety, and uphold the Kingdom’s reputation as a premier travel destination.
Penalty criteria and proportionality
One of the core changes in the updated tables is the use of detailed criteria to determine penalties. The Ministry now factors in the location and size of the tourism facility when applying fines or sanctions. This ensures penalties are proportional and fair, avoiding blanket punishments that could disproportionately affect smaller businesses. The classification also accounts for the type of tourism activity and the nature of the violation, tailoring enforcement to specific circumstances.This approach is expected to encourage better compliance with the Tourism Law by recognizing the diverse nature of tourism providers and their operations.
Classification of violations: Major vs. non-major
The amendments introduce a special classification for major violations, aimed at ensuring strict handling of serious breaches that threaten the industry’s integrity. Examples of major violations include:
- Operating tourism activities without a license issued by the Ministry
- Continuing activities after a license or permit has been revoked or expired
- Engaging in tourism-related practices that endanger public safety or damage Saudi Arabia’s tourism reputation
- Obstructing or refusing cooperation with inspection authorities
For these major violations, penalties can include license revocation, partial or full closure of facilities, and other strict legal consequences. Conversely, non-major violations are now subject to a warning system. Facilities found in breach of minor rules will receive a formal warning and a grace period to correct the issue before any penalties are enforced. This change encourages operators to improve without immediate punitive action, promoting a collaborative regulatory environment.
Enhancing service quality and visitor safety
The amendments emphasize the importance of safeguarding visitor rights and maintaining approved safety standards. Some violations have been reclassified as more severe due to their direct impact on service quality and visitor safety. This reflects the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that tourism offerings across Saudi Arabia meet high-quality benchmarks.
Consultation and implementation
These updates were developed after extensive consultations with investors, tourism operators, and industry professionals. The Ministry conducted multiple meetings and workshops in different cities and regions to gather feedback and align the new regulations with sector needs.The Ministry of Tourism views these amendments as part of a broader legislative and regulatory framework designed to enhance the tourism investment ecosystem, empower compliant investors, and deliver a safe, high-quality experience for visitors.Tourism facilities are urged to review the updated Tables of Violations and Penalties, now published on the Ministry’s official website. Inspection campaigns will continue nationwide, with legal penalties imposed on violators to ensure strict adherence. Go to Source
