The Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia is cracking down on hospitality establishments that are operating without proper licenses. They have issued a warning that strict penalties, including fines of up to SR1 million, closures of facilities, or both, will be imposed on violators. Names of the offenders will also be made public in the local media at their own expense. This move is part of the ministry’s efforts to ensure the quality of services provided to tourists and visitors in the Kingdom.
In response to reports of violations, the ministry has instructed travel and tourism service providers and booking platforms to remove unlicensed facilities from their listings. Starting from January 1, 2025, platforms must ensure that the facilities they display are consistent with the classification granted by the ministry. This crackdown is part of the ministry’s efforts to improve hospitality standards in the country and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
To further emphasize the importance of compliance with licensing and classification requirements, the ministry has launched the “Our Guests Are Priority” campaign. This initiative aims to raise awareness among hospitality establishments about the need to obtain or renew their licenses before engaging in business activities. The campaign also encourages customers to report any concerns they have regarding hospitality services through the Unified Tourism Center number 930.
It is mandatory for all hospitality facilities, including private establishments, to have a valid license for their operation in accordance with the provisions for the tourism sector. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe penalties, as outlined by the ministry. By enforcing these rules, the ministry aims to ensure that tourists and visitors receive high-quality services and have a positive experience during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The ministry’s efforts to improve the quality of tourism services in the Kingdom come at a time when the country is working to attract more visitors and boost its tourism industry. By cracking down on unlicensed facilities and promoting compliance with regulations, the ministry is taking steps to enhance the overall visitor experience and uphold the country’s reputation as a top tourist destination. The “Our Guests Are Priority” campaign is just one of the initiatives aimed at achieving this goal and ensuring that all visitors have a safe and enjoyable stay in Saudi Arabia.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia is taking strict measures to ensure that hospitality establishments comply with licensing and classification requirements. By enforcing these regulations, the ministry aims to improve the quality of tourism services in the Kingdom and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. With penalties in place for violators and initiatives like the “Our Guests Are Priority” campaign, the ministry is working towards enhancing the overall visitor experience and promoting Saudi Arabia as a premier tourist destination. Visitors are encouraged to report any concerns they have regarding hospitality services, and the ministry is committed to addressing these issues promptly to uphold the country’s high standards of hospitality.
