Riyadh, February 4, 2025 – In a move to strengthen oversight and maintain high standards within the tourism sector, the Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia has issued a new circular directing travel and tourism service providers, as well as operators of hospitality facilities, to refrain from marketing or promoting unlicensed or unauthorized venues. This directive comes as part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to regulate the tourism industry, ensure compliance with legal frameworks, and protect the interests of visitors.
The circular emphasizes that all hospitality services related to overnight accommodations must align with the specifics of the licenses or permits granted by the Ministry. It also strictly prohibits the subdivision and sale of hospitality units on a per-bed basis, a practice that has recently been identified as a violation of licensing standards. This rule applies across all types of hospitality facilities, including hotels, service apartments, and resorts. However, the sale of per-bed units in shared spaces such as hostels remains an exception.
The Ministry’s directive is a direct response to the identification of certain practices that do not adhere to the conditions under which the relevant licenses and permits were issued. In particular, issues relating to the illegal subdivision and marketing of hospitality units on a per-bed basis have been observed, prompting the Ministry to take swift action in order to protect the integrity of the Kingdom's tourism infrastructure and ensure that it meets the highest standards of service and safety.
To enforce these regulations, the Ministry has made it clear that any violators of the directive will face legal consequences. These could include financial penalties, the closure of non-compliant facilities, or a combination of both measures. The Ministry’s commitment to upholding these guidelines is designed to ensure that visitors to the Kingdom are provided with quality accommodations and a safe, regulated environment in which to enjoy their stay.
In addition to ensuring that services are provided in accordance with the law, the Ministry of Tourism is also focusing on safeguarding the rights of tourists and visitors. By regulating the tourism sector and enforcing these directives, the Ministry aims to enhance the overall visitor experience, ensuring that all establishments meet the required standards and contribute to the Kingdom's reputation as a top tourist destination.
For any inquiries or to report non-compliant facilities, the Ministry encourages individuals to contact the Unified Tourism Center at 930, where concerns can be addressed in a timely and effective manner. The issuance of this circular marks another step in the Ministry’s continued commitment to elevating the quality and reliability of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.