Saudi Measures Limit New Fees that Affect Tourist Activity

Saudi Measures Limit New Fees that Affect Tourist Activity

Saudi Arabia directed the relevant public agencies to coordinate with the Non-Oil Revenue Development Center and the Ministry of Tourism before proposing any new taxes or fees that could affect tourist activities.

Last week, the government approved the new tourism law to be part of the system of development of the regulatory and legislative environment for the sector.

The newly approved law comes in line with the leadership's orders to build a competitive tourism sector and contribute to the goals of Vision 2030.

The Saudi cabinet added a new paragraph in the Ministry of Tourism law that requires coordination with the competent authorities to establish tourism colleges, institutes, and academies and set up specialized training courses and programs under regulations.

Saudi Arabia has set 90 days for establishments operating in the sector to apply to the Ministry to amend their conditions per the new law's provisions, subject to renewal.

After agreeing with the relevant government agencies, the Minister of Tourism may propose customs and tax exemptions related to tourism activities and the necessary incentives to revitalize the sector and submit them to legal procedures.

The Minister may entrust any of the Ministry's competencies and powers contained in the new law to any authorities with geographical jurisdiction,