Latest news with #MinistryofMunicipalandRuralAffairsandHousing
Saudi Gazette
3 days ago
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia begins enforcement of higher localization rates in pharmacy, dentistry, and engineering sectors
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) announced the implementation of updated Saudization targets in key professional sectors, starting Sunday, July 27, 2025. The move comes in collaboration with supervisory bodies including the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing. The updated Saudization plan targets pharmacy, dentistry, and technical engineering professions as part of ongoing efforts to expand the participation of Saudi nationals in the labor market and create productive employment opportunities across the Kingdom. In partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Saudization rate for pharmacy roles has been raised to 35% in community pharmacies and medical complexes, 65% in hospital pharmacy operations, and 55% in other pharmacy-related activities. This applies to establishments with five or more employees in pharmacy roles, with a minimum wage threshold of SR7,000 to count toward localization quotas. Dentistry jobs are now required to meet a 45% Saudization rate in the first phase, also effective today. The decision applies to facilities employing three or more dental professionals, with the minimum salary for inclusion in the quota set at SR9,000. Meanwhile, in coordination with the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, technical engineering professions must now meet a 30% Saudization target in establishments with five or more employees in these roles. A minimum monthly wage of SR5,000 has been set to qualify for localization compliance. The ministry said it has published procedural guides on its official website detailing the required quotas and application mechanisms, urging all establishments to comply in order to avoid penalties. The update continues the Kingdom's broader nationalization strategy within the private sector. While the Ministry of Health will oversee the implementation of Saudization in dental and pharmacy professions, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing will monitor compliance in technical engineering fields. Private sector entities will also benefit from support programs offered by the Human Resources and Social Development system, including recruitment incentives, training, job retention, and priority access to Saudization assistance through the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF).
Gulf Insider
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Housing Splits
The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing has affirmed the continued efforts of local municipalities and secretariats to monitor and penalize unauthorized residential property divisions intended for investment purposes. Offenders may face fines of up to SR200, a statement issued Tuesday, the ministry highlighted key violations including subdividing housing units into smaller sections, creating internal doors, and modifying exits through building setbacks — all without obtaining necessary permits. These actions, it said, compromise public safety, strain infrastructure and municipal services, and disrupt social and economic balance in urban by the ministry, local authorities are intensifying on-ground inspections and leveraging reports submitted through the 'Balady' app, part of an integrated monitoring system aimed at efficiently identifying and addressing ministry stressed that all parties involved — whether property advertisers, owners, investors, or tenants — will be held accountable under current municipal regulations. Unauthorized housing modifications are considered a clear violation and carry penalties reaching SR200, also warned against marketing or renting subdivided units on digital platforms without official licenses from municipal authorities, emphasizing the negative impact such practices have on residential quality ministry urged the public to report violations through the 'Balady' app or by calling the unified hotline (940). Also read: Heritage On Wheels: The Iconic Red Truck That Connected Generations In Saudi Arabia
Saudi Gazette
7 days ago
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi authorities crack down on illegal housing splits, fines up to SR200,000
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing has affirmed the continued efforts of local municipalities and secretariats to monitor and penalize unauthorized residential property divisions intended for investment purposes. Offenders may face fines of up to SR200,000. In a statement issued Tuesday, the ministry highlighted key violations including subdividing housing units into smaller sections, creating internal doors, and modifying exits through building setbacks — all without obtaining necessary permits. These actions, it said, compromise public safety, strain infrastructure and municipal services, and disrupt social and economic balance in urban areas. Supported by the ministry, local authorities are intensifying on-ground inspections and leveraging reports submitted through the 'Balady' app, part of an integrated monitoring system aimed at efficiently identifying and addressing violations. The ministry stressed that all parties involved — whether property advertisers, owners, investors, or tenants — will be held accountable under current municipal regulations. Unauthorized housing modifications are considered a clear violation and carry penalties reaching SR200,000. It also warned against marketing or renting subdivided units on digital platforms without official licenses from municipal authorities, emphasizing the negative impact such practices have on residential quality standards. The ministry urged the public to report violations through the 'Balady' app or by calling the unified hotline (940).
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
New rules in Saudi Arabia aim to elevate fine dining experience
Saudi Arabia introduces fine dining regulations that prioritise elegance, service, and exclusivity under Vision 2030/Representative Image TL;DR: Saudi Arabia launches new rules for fine dining restaurants under Vision 2030. Regulations focus on service quality, dress codes, ambience, and hospitality standards. Only one branch per restaurant chain is allowed per city under the fine dining category Initiative aims to align local hospitality with international luxury standards. In a bid to elevate its culinary and hospitality standards, Saudi Arabia has introduced a new set of guidelines for fine dining establishments. The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing (MOMRAH) unveiled the regulatory framework on Monday, with a clear focus on enhancing customer experience and aligning with global fine dining norms. The initiative is part of the broader Vision 2030 objectives aimed at developing lifestyle sectors, supporting the tourism industry, and promoting private-sector excellence in service delivery. What's Changing for Fine Dining? Under the new classification system as mentioned in Saudi Gazette, fine dining restaurants must now adhere to a defined set of operational and visual standards. These include: High-End Service Standards: Trained staff must be available to provide tailored, attentive service to patrons. Atmosphere and Design: The interiors should reflect elegance, sophistication, and comfort — with curated lighting, well-planned layouts, and distinct branding. Dress Code and Etiquette: Both customers and staff are expected to maintain a refined appearance. Restaurants are allowed to enforce specific dress codes, provided they are clearly communicated. Music and Entertainment Policy: Any background music or entertainment should maintain a classy, low-volume ambience suited to the theme and atmosphere of fine dining. Exclusive Licensing: Only one branch per restaurant chain is permitted per city under the fine dining classification, preventing oversaturation and preserving exclusivity. The ministry clarified that these measures are designed to ensure a consistent and premium dining experience while supporting Saudi Arabia's hospitality competitiveness on the global stage. Purpose: Supporting Lifestyle and Tourism Goals According to the Ministry, the regulation aims to develop the classification of food establishments and support the Kingdom's growing role as a hub for gastronomy and upscale leisure. Saudi Arabia has seen a surge in high-end restaurant openings in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla in recent years. This regulatory step ensures that such venues maintain international-level standards while preserving cultural expectations and local identity. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The guidelines also support the tourism ecosystem by standardizing the quality of visitor experiences, a key objective under Vision 2030. Impact on Business and Patrons Fine dining operators will need to meet these criteria to either maintain or obtain their "fine dining" classification. The ministry may issue formal recognitions or classifications to establishments that fulfil the required conditions, potentially impacting licensing, marketing, and eligibility for future hospitality partnerships. For diners, the guidelines will make expectations clearer, especially for international visitors used to a consistent luxury dining standard. These rules are applicable only to establishments voluntarily classified or aspiring to be recognized as fine dining and not to casual eateries or cafes. Ongoing Oversight and Compliance The Ministry has not yet released penalties or enforcement mechanisms but stated that the classification will involve assessment visits and performance evaluations over time. Restaurant owners are encouraged to review the published guidelines and adapt accordingly. This is not the first step in raising hospitality benchmarks. Saudi Arabia has previously introduced regulations around hygiene, ingredient sourcing, and customer transparency across food-related sectors. The current update builds on those foundations to address the premium segment. Saudi Arabia's new fine dining regulations mark another step in its push to become a global hospitality destination. By setting clear standards around design, etiquette, and service, the Kingdom is positioning itself to attract discerning customers and international culinary brands while supporting local entrepreneurship. As Vision 2030 progresses, such policies are likely to become more common across other lifestyle sectors, shaping the cultural and commercial landscape for years to come.
Gulf Insider
22-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Crackdown on Unlicensed Housing
The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing has affirmed that municipal authorities across Saudi Arabia are continuing efforts to detect and address violations related to the unauthorized subdivision of residential properties intended for investment. The ministry emphasized its commitment to curbing irregular practices that bypass approved municipal permits, citing their negative impact on urban quality of life and neighborhood integrity. In a statement issued Monday, the ministry identified key violations such as subdividing housing units into smaller spaces, adding internal doors, and modifying exits through building setbacks all without the required licenses. These actions, it noted, pose risks to public safety, strain infrastructure and municipal services, and disrupt social and economic balance within communities. Municipal teams, with ministry support, are conducting field inspections across regions, in addition to acting on reports submitted through the 'Balady' digital platform. The ministry operates an advanced monitoring system to detect violations and take appropriate legal action against offenders. Authorities clarified that penalties extend to all parties involved in violations, including advertisers, property owners, investors, and tenants. The ministry reiterated that altering housing units without official approval constitutes a clear violation, subject to fines of up to SR200,000. The ministry stressed the need to adhere to established urban regulations and warned against listing or renting subdivided units through online platforms without formal licensing from regional municipalities. Such unregulated practices, it said, compromise residential quality and urban planning goals. Residents and citizens are urged to report any related violations via the Balady app or by calling the unified number (940). Also read: Saudi Arabia Issues New Regulations for Fine Dining Restaurants
