Saudi Arabia vows tough penalties against antiquity offences

Cairo: Saudi authorities have warned that tough penalties including jail will be meted out against encroachments of antiquities as the kingdom is seeking to boost its tourism industry.

The Saudi government has recently approved regulations for protecting antiquities and national heritage, punishing related offences by up to seven years in prison.

According to the new system, illegal seizure of state-owned antiquities is punishable by jailing ranging from six months to seven years and a maximum fine of SR500,000.

Diverse heritage

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has taken several steps to promote its diverse heritage and tourism as part of efforts to diversify its oil-reliant economy.

In 2019, the kingdom launched a new visa scheme aimed at attracting foreign holidaymakers.

Saudi Arabia’s pre-pandemic aim was to attract 100 million visitors annually by 2030.