Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has closed 25 hospitality establishments in Mecca in July for violating tourism regulations, as part of efforts to maintain standards and ensure compliance within the sector.
According to gulfnews, the closures followed intensified inspection campaigns aimed at protecting visitor safety and ensuring compliance in the holy city.
The violations included operating without valid licences, poor hygiene and maintenance standards, and non-compliance with guest safety protocols.
“These measures reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all facilities adhere to the highest standards of service and safety,” the ministry said in a statement, stressing the need for regulatory compliance.
Penalties for such infractions may include fines of up to one million Saudi riyals (approx. $266,000), closure orders, or both. The ministry reaffirmed that only licensed facilities meeting approved standards will be permitted to operate.
