New Rules Restrict Mobile Vendors in 9 Locations

Authorities in Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed rules that restrict mobile vending activity in nine designated location types, with the prohibition being actively enforced as of August 2026. The measure aims to protect public safety and keep key roads and service areas clear.

Mobile vending is now prohibited at road intersections, central road medians, parking spaces reserved for persons with disabilities, entrances and exits of main roads, areas adjacent to traffic lights, public parking areas, bicycle lanes, roads with heavy traffic, and locations designated for police, traffic, civil defense, and ambulance services.

Residents can report violations by calling 940 or through the Balady application. Vendors who wish to operate legally must obtain their permits through Balady as well.

How to obtain a license or permit

To get a commercial license, applicants enter the establishment record, specify the activity and area, select the location, fill in the shop or mobile cart details, then pay the fees if the activity is instant-licensed, or submit to the municipality if it is not. For a mobile cart permit, users access the service, complete the application details, pay the required fees, then confirm and submit. A Civil Defense safety equipment invoice or safety report is required for instant-approval activities.

Permits can be issued only after the commercial license is issued, and any permit linked to that license is automatically revoked if the commercial license is canceled. Balady commercial-license services carry a response time of 24 hours.

For support, applicants can call 199040 or email infocs@momah.gov.sa. Working hours run from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, while self-services are available around the clock. The rules give both vendors and the wider community clearer guidance on where mobile vending is allowed.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving