The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has announced a schedule of fines for hospitality facilities in Mecca and Medina during the Hajj season, with penalties ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 Saudi Riyals depending on the facility category and the nature of the violation.
The announced violations include the loss of a licensing condition, with fines for the first category reaching 10,000 Riyals, while the second category incurs a fine of 8,000 Riyals, the third 6,000 Riyals, the fourth 4,000 Riyals, and the fifth 2,000 Riyals. Additionally, a hospitality facility may be temporarily closed until the violation is corrected, with the possibility of license cancellation if the violation is repeated a second time.
Details of the Violations
Among the identified violations is the obstruction of inspectors from performing their duties and a lack of cooperation with them, with fines for the first category reaching 20,000 Riyals, while fines for other categories are 14,000 Riyals. The facilities have been classified into five categories, including five-star luxury, four-star, three-star, two-star, and other unclassified types.
Other violations include the failure to receive tourists and not treating them politely, with fines of 5,000 Riyals for the first category and 3,000 Riyals for other categories. Violations also include refusal to provide services without acceptable reasons, which incurs a fine of up to 10,000 Riyals in the first category.
Background & Context
These regulations have been adopted by the Ministry of Tourism as part of its efforts to improve the quality of services provided during the Hajj season, which is considered one of the largest human gatherings in the world. This decision comes at a sensitive time, as officials seek to enhance the experience of pilgrims and provide a safe and comfortable environment for them.
Additionally, applicants for hospitality licenses for