Saudi Arabia has announced changes to the rules for tourist accommodation facilities and a new regulation for tour guiding. For companies offering tourism services in the Saudi market or planning to work with local providers, the key point is that the two sets of rules have different implementation dates.
The amended rules for tourist accommodation facilities will take effect on 1 July 2027. Operators holding a valid licence when the rules take effect will then have 90 days to comply. Accommodation providers should review the new requirements well in advance.
The tour guiding regulation sets out licence categories and the conditions for obtaining a licence. Tour guiding may not be carried out without the appropriate licence. Saudi citizenship is generally one of the eligibility requirements, although the regulation allows for an exemption by decision of the competent minister.
What does this mean for Slovenian companies? When organising travel, business visits or medical tourism programmes in Saudi Arabia, companies should establish who will provide accommodation, transport and guiding services locally, and check that each provider holds the required licence.
Sources: Official decision amending the accommodation regulations and Tour Guiding Regulation.