ABHA: The Saudi Ministry of Tourism recorded more than 350 violations during its inspection tours of hospitality facilities in the Asir region, closing 40 of them.
It addressed about 270 complaints regarding the services provided in facilities such as hotels and serviced apartments, as part of the Our Guests Are A Priority campaign during the first quarter of 2024.
The ministry’s supervisory teams conducted about 650 supervisory and inspection tours of hospitality facilities.
The tours were part of ongoing efforts to enhance the tourism sector in all regions of the Kingdom, in addition to ensuring the quality of services provided by various types of hospitality facilities to visitors and tourists.
The ministry said it would impose the strictest penalties on those who engaged in activities before obtaining the necessary licenses. It also said it would not be lenient in imposing regulatory penalties on violators, the closure of the facility in question, or both penalties in some cases.
Saudi Ministry of Tourism closes 40 facilities in Asir region for various violations
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Saudi Ministry of Tourism closes 40 facilities in Asir region for various violations
- Tourism operators had been warned of heavy penalties if they do business before obtaining the necessary licenses.
Sustainability in focus as Madinah marks World Soil Day
MADINAH: Madinah joined the world in celebrating World Soil Day on Dec. 5, highlighting the importance of soil conservation for food security and ecosystems, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The day holds added significance in Madinah due to its rich agricultural history, diverse soil types — from clay to sand and volcanic Harrat — and its longstanding connection to date production.
The region’s soil faces challenges, notably salinization from imbalanced irrigation and climate change, the SPA added.
Authorities are addressing this through soil protection programs, improved irrigation techniques and sustainable agricultural practices.
Soil plays a vital role in water purification, acting as a natural filter. As winter begins, it is an opportune time to prepare soil for spring, expanding crop cultivation and harvest, the SPA reported.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Madinah is implementing initiatives to enhance resource efficiency, raise farmer awarenes and combat desertification. Farmers contribute by using organic fertilization and recycling agricultural waste.
World Soil Day highlights the need for collaboration between government agencies, farmers and stakeholders to ensure soil sustainability, preserve agricultural heritage and support Vision 2030’s sustainable development goals.
Approved by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 2013, World Soil Day aims to raise awareness of soil’s critical role in healthy ecosystems and human well-being.
