Tourism Ministry Updates Four Regulations

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has updated four key tourism regulations in September 2026, aiming to raise service quality across the sector and improve the overall tourist experience. The revised rules cover travel and tourism services, tourist guides, hospitality facilities, and private hospitality units.

Under the Travel and Tourism Services Regulation, licensing categories have been simplified and providers now have access to a broader range of permitted services, greater operational flexibility, and multiple license duration options. Licenses are typically valid for one, two, or three years, selected at the time of application through the Ministry's electronic e-services platform, where submission and payment are completed online.

Published fee examples reflect the new multi-year structure. General travel and tourism services cost SAR 20,000 for one year, SAR 22,000 for two years, and SAR 24,000 for three years. Tour operations and travel and tourism agencies each start at SAR 10,000 for one year, rising to SAR 12,000 for three years, while accommodation unit booking activity begins at SAR 5,000 for one year.

The updated Tourist Guide Regulation simplifies licensing categories, allowing guides to work across multiple regions and specializations rather than being limited to a single region. It also clarifies professional standards, obligations, and quality expectations, with licensing and renewal handled through the Ministry's electronic channels.

Why it matters

The Hospitality Facility Regulation, covering hotels, hotel apartments, and resorts, updates licensing, classification, and operating procedures, including reservations, payments, and online marketing. It also strengthens security and safety requirements, workforce qualification, and electronic integration with Ministry systems, linking classification more closely to operational quality and service standards. For residents, expats, and visitors, the changes are designed to deliver clearer service standards and a smoother, higher-quality travel experience across the Kingdom.

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