Saudi Arabia bans iftar meal promotions at two holy mosques

Dubai: Saudi Arabia has barred advertising and promotional activities during the distribution of iftar meals at the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, under new guidelines issued by the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques.

The authority released a procedural guide, outlining conditions for obtaining permits to serve meals to worshipers during the holy month of Ramadan. 

The rules apply to all organisations and individuals seeking to provide iftar, requiring that applicants be legally registered with the relevant authorities and submit distribution plans that meet both health and Shariah standards.

Under the new regulations, permit holders must adhere to designated distribution areas, maintain public hygiene, and refrain from advertising or marketing while serving meals. 

The authority said permits are non-transferable, and only approved meals may be distributed. It also stressed that it has the right to revoke permits at any time if violations occur.

Violations carry escalating penalties: a first offense will result in a written warning, while repeated violations will lead to the revocation of the permit and disqualification from participating in meal distribution for the remainder of Ramadan.