The Ministry of Tourism has closed 10 travel agencies in Riyadh for breaking rules. These agencies operated without the necessary licenses. They also organized unauthorized Umrah and visitation packages.
The agencies transported pilgrims using unlicensed vehicles. They also housed pilgrims in unauthorized hotels in Makkah and Madinah. These actions violated tourism regulations.
This move is part of the Ministry’s ongoing effort to regulate tourism activities. The goal is to ensure all travel service providers meet official licensing and operational standards across Saudi Arabia.
Officials inspected travel agencies that lacked proper permits or worked beyond their approved scope. The campaign aims to protect tourists’ rights and improve service quality. This is in line with Saudi Arabia’s broader tourism strategy.
The Ministry stated that violators will face legal penalties. Fines can reach up to SR50,000 for a first offense. For repeat offenses, fines may rise to SR1 million. Agencies may also be shut down or face both fines and closures, depending on how serious the violations are.
Authorities urged all licensed operators to follow permit rules strictly. The Ministry also warned the public to use only officially licensed agencies. This helps protect travelers’ rights and ensures a safe and trustworthy experience.
Tourists and residents can report complaints or violations about hospitality services. They should contact the unified tourism call center by calling 930.
This enforcement action highlights the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining high standards in Saudi Arabia’s travel industry. By closing unlicensed agencies, the Ministry works to build trust and improve tourism services across the Kingdom.
