Tourism Ministry Amends Violations And Penalties To Enhance Compliance In Saudi Arabia

The Ministry of Tourism has announced changes to the Tables of Violations and Penalties and Enforcement Rules for tourism activities. These changes aim to improve compliance, enhance regulatory efficiency, and boost service quality across destinations. The amendments introduce penalties based on specific criteria, such as the location and size of tourism facilities, supporting SMEs and ensuring fair enforcement under the Tourism Law.

Amendments include a special classification for major violations, ensuring strict handling of issues that significantly impact the industry. Non-major violations will receive warnings first, allowing time to correct issues before penalties are applied. This approach aims to improve service quality, maintain safety standards, and protect visitor rights.

Practicing tourism activities without a license or after revocation or expiration is now a major violation. Other major violations include actions that endanger public safety or harm Saudi Arabia's tourism reputation. Obstructing inspectors or refusing cooperation also falls under this category. Strict penalties like license revocation or facility closure may apply.

The amendments followed extensive consultations with investors, operators, and professionals in the tourism sector. These discussions took place through meetings and workshops in various cities and regions. The ministry emphasized that these changes are part of a broader framework aimed at boosting tourism investment efficiency and ensuring a safe experience for visitors.

Updates to violation classifications mean some are now seen as more severe due to their impact on service quality and visitor safety. Enforcement procedures have been enhanced to promote discipline and transparency within the sector. The ministry stressed the importance of these updates in maintaining high standards across all tourism activities.

The Ministry of Tourism encourages all facilities to review the amended regulations available on its website. Inspection campaigns will continue throughout Saudi Arabia, with legal penalties for non-compliance. This initiative underscores the ministry's commitment to maintaining a robust regulatory environment for tourism.

With inputs from SPA