Monday, August 18, 2025

Riyadh Authorities Close Shops Over Hygiene, Storage, and Safety Violations

Riyadh Authorities Close Shops Over Hygiene, Storage, and Safety Violations



The Riyadh Mayoralty has found 26 public health violations during inspection tours of several soft drink shops in the capital. As a result, two shops were closed due to serious violations.

The inspections were carried out with the help of relevant authorities and partners. Reports submitted by citizens through the “Madinaty” app also assisted in guiding the inspection tours. The goal was to protect public health and ensure full compliance with municipal rules. Most Viewed: Saudi Arabia expands cloud seeding program into 6 regions

According to the mayoralty, the violations included:

➤ Poor hygiene in shops and work areas.

➤ Hiring workers without valid health certificates.

➤ Unsafe food storage and handling.

➤ Using or displaying spoiled meat.

➤ Employees with poor personal hygiene and an unhealthy appearance.

Other violations included

■ Presence of live or dead pests inside the facilities.

■ Dirty food preparation areas and equipment.

■ Workers not wearing uniforms, gloves, or head coverings.

■ Shops are operating without licenses.

■ Reopening shops before the end of their closure period. Recommend: Foreign investors can now own up to 49% of Saudi companies

Inspectors also reported:

πŸ”˜Inspectors also noted the absence of appropriate waste containers.

πŸ”˜ Violations in the display and storage of tobacco products.

πŸ”˜ Missing food labels on products.

πŸ”˜ Poor ventilation and lighting inside shops.

πŸ”˜ Cracks in floors and walls.

πŸ”˜ Water leaks from equipment.

πŸ”˜ Unsafe or non-compliant tools and utensils.

πŸ”˜ Failure to maintain cooling and heating systems.

The Riyadh Mayoralty confirmed it has taken strict actions, including warnings, notices, fines, and closing facilities that directly threaten public health. It also stressed that monitoring will continue to ensure compliance and protect consumers. Read: Saudi Arabia approves the use of Digital ID for foreigners for owning property. 

Riyadh Authorities Close Shops Over Hygiene, Storage, and Safety Violations
Riyadh Authorities Close Shops Over Hygiene, Storage, and Safety Violations