Tuesday, July 22, 2025
New Rules for Fine Dining Restaurants in Saudi Arabia
With the goal of attracting investment and improving the business climate in the hospitality industry, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing in Saudi Arabia has released new rules to govern the operations of fine dining establishments. Trending: Saudi Arabia designs 25 innovative semiconductor prototypes
New regulations mandate that luxury dining establishments provide full table service, which includes welcoming customers from the entrance to their seats and even providing valet parking.
A dress code requirement and the elimination of open cashiers are also part of the rules.
Fast service and outside windows cannot provide the total "experience" that is essential to luxurious dining, so drive-thrus are completely prohibited in these places, according to the ministry.
Additionally, restaurants are required to maintain an interface for customers to submit complaints, install digital reservation systems, and make beverage preparation stations easily accessible. Most Viewed: What is Saudization and what expats should know about it
The standard format for menus is for a minimum of five items spread across three sections: appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
A qualified food health and safety specialist must be employed, coat hangers and bag holders must be provided, and a hidden space must be designated for pickup orders via delivery apps, hidden from guests.
For the sake of exclusivity and brand differentiation, the rules also restrict restaurant chains to having only one location in each city.
All fine dining restaurants in Saudi Arabia must register their brand trademarks with the relevant authorities to protect their visual identity and enhance their local and global reputation. Recommend: Saudi Arabia rules tobacco sales ban in Grocery stores
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| New Rules for Fine Dining Restaurants in Saudi Arabia |
