Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Ministry of Tourism emphasized that it has been continuing enforcement of statutory penalties against violators of the Tourism Law and its executive regulations. These penalties range from a maximum fine of SR1 million, closure, or both, for any violating facility operating without a license from the Ministry of Tourism.

The ministry stated that, over the past period, a comprehensive survey of all closed tourism facilities was conducted to ensure the continued enforcement of the closure penalty. Periodic follow-ups are also conducted, in coordination with the region's emirate and relevant security and government agencies, to verify their compliance with the closure decision.

The ministry emphasized the necessity for tourist hospitality facilities to adhere to the provisions of the Tourism Law and its executive regulations and obtain the necessary licenses from the ministry. It noted that the approved regulations and standards stipulate the necessity of correcting the status of violating facilities and ensuring their compliance with the regulations before resumption of their operation.

These regulations include provisions and requirements aimed at improving the services provided, enhancing their quality, and ensuring the safety of visitors and tourists. This will positively impact the development of the tourism sector in the Kingdom and make it more attractive to investors and tourists.

In this regard, the ministry affirmed that it will not hesitate to implement the penalties stipulated in the Tourism Law against violators, while providing all necessary support to its private sector partners who adhere to the regulations.

The ministry indicated that the Tourism Law and its regulations, as well as all relevant requirements and standards, can be viewed by visiting the ministry's official website and benefiting from the direct electronic services for issuing licenses through the electronic licensing portal. In addition, the necessary support can be obtained through directly contacting the Unified Tourism Center.