Saudi Arabia closes 25 of Mecca hotels for breaching tourism regulations

Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has shut down 25 hospitality establishments in Mecca during July for breaching tourism regulations.

The closures followed intensified inspection campaigns aimed at protecting visitor safety and ensuring compliance in the holy city.

The violations included operating without valid licences, poor hygiene and maintenance standards, and non-compliance with guest safety protocols.

“These measures reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all facilities adhere to the highest standards of service and safety,” the ministry said in a statement, stressing the need for regulatory compliance.

Penalties for such infractions may include fines of up to one million Saudi riyals (approx. $266,000), closure orders, or both. The ministry reaffirmed that only licensed facilities meeting approved standards will be permitted to operate.