Riyadh: The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has updated the requirements for tourist hospitality facilities. This step aims to develop the tourism investment environment and enhance the quality of services provided to citizens, visitors, and residents. The move aligns with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals of building sustainable cities and improving the quality of life across the Kingdom.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the ministry explained that these requirements are part of a package of initiatives designed to provide an integrated urban environment that encourages compliance and strengthens the competitiveness of the tourism sector. The new requirements were prepared in line with global best practices in the design and operation of hospitality facilities, with a focus on instilling a culture of compliance with municipal regulations, promoting environmental sustainability, and improving the urban landscape in Saudi cities.

These requirements also integrate with local regulations, such as the Saudi Building Code and the regulations approved by the Ministry of Tourism and other technical and regulatory bodies. The updated standards cover aspects related to location, urban planning, and architectural design, in addition to operational requirements, public hygiene, safety, the provision of secure electronic payment methods, requirements for people with disabilities, and other measures that ensure a high-quality hospitality environment tailored to user needs and aligned with modern industry standards.

The ministry emphasized that compliance with these requirements is a shared responsibility that will contribute to creating a safe investment environment and achieving a balance between urban development and preserving urban identity, making Saudi cities a model to be emulated regionally and globally.