Details of Updated Food Law Violations, Executive Regulations

Logo of The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, as per the Updated Food Law Violations Schedule, imposed fines starting from SAR 10,000 and up to SAR 50,000 for practicing any food-related activity without obtaining a municipal license.
 

A maximum fine of SAR 5,000 applies in cases where the activity is practiced after license expiry or in violation of the licensed activity.
 

The penalties also cover violations such as negligence in maintaining and cleaning sewage outlets regularly in preparation areas, which may lead to the accumulation of food waste, foul odors, and insect infestations, in addition to disposing of seized materials without the approval of the competent authority.
 

The violations schedule stipulates a SAR 10,000 fine for employing workers with invalid health certificates, and SAR 5,000 if workers are caught smoking inside food establishments. Fines may reach SAR 4,000 for sewage leaks or overflows, and SAR 10,000 for reopening a store before the end of its regulatory closure period.
 

Penalties also include fines of up to SAR 3,000 for failure to execute product recall orders issued by the concerned authority, or for advertising or modifying food products without prior approval. Street vending by non-Saudis is considered a violation punishable by fines ranging between SAR 1,200 and SAR 2,000.
 

The ministry further imposed fines ranging from SAR 400 to SAR 2,000 for various consumer health-related violations, including practicing activities outside the licensed scope, using public sidewalks or setback areas for private business purposes. This also includes placing advertising materials in front of the establishment without a sidewalk occupancy permit.
 

Penalties also address violations related to delivery services, such as using vehicles or motorcycles not bearing the name of the licensed establishment, failing to maintain a dedicated delivery log inside the premises, or lacking proper food storage containers during transportation.
 

The regulations also prohibit employing workers who exhibit symptoms of illness, wounds, or blisters, or who engage in unhygienic practices during work, such as touching the nose or mouth. These are considered violations that threaten food safety. Additionally, fines are imposed on service providers who show symptoms of contagious diseases, such as skin rashes or other conditions that may spread infections.