Hotels and serviced apartments caught in violation crackdown, facing fines of up to one million riyals

The Ministry of Tourism has reiterated its commitment to enforcing regulatory penalties on violators of tourism laws and regulations, which can include fines of up to one million riyals or closure, or both, for any facility operating without a license from the Ministry of Tourism.

In a comprehensive survey conducted recently, all closed tourism facilities were inspected to ensure that the closure penalties were being upheld. The Ministry, in coordination with the regional emirate and relevant security and government authorities, continues to periodically monitor compliance with closure orders.

The Ministry has emphasized the necessity for tourism hospitality facilities to adhere to tourism laws and regulations, and to obtain the required licenses from the Ministry of Tourism. It has been noted that the approved regulations and standards require corrective measures for non-compliant facilities to align with regulations before reopening and operating. These regulations include provisions and requirements aimed at enhancing the services provided, improving their quality, and ensuring the safety of visitors and tourists, ultimately contributing to the development of the tourism sector in the Kingdom and making it more attractive to investors and tourists.

Furthermore, the Ministry has made it clear that it will not hesitate to impose penalties outlined in the tourism law on violators, while providing necessary support to committed private sector partners adhering to regulations.

The Ministry has also highlighted the opportunity to access the tourism law, regulations, and all relevant requirements, by visiting the official website of the Ministry: https://mt.gov.sa/.