4,700 violations in Makkah hospitality checks

The Saudi tourism ministry’s oversight teams have already carried out over 4,500 inspection tours of hospitality facilities in Makkah. (AFP)
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Updated 08 June 2024
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4,700 violations in Makkah hospitality checks

RIYADH: The Ministry of Tourism announced it will increase its monitoring and inspection of various tourist hospitality facilities in Makkah, including hotels and serviced apartments.

The goal is to enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims during this year’s Hajj season. The inspections are being conducted under the guidance and supervision of Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb.

Coinciding with this year’s Hajj season, the ministry’s oversight teams have already carried out over 4,500 inspection tours of hospitality facilities in Makkah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

During the inspections, they identified over 4,700 violations, most of which were related to low cleanliness and maintenance standards, and activities carried out without the necessary licenses.

The inspection tours are part of the ministry’s active efforts to provide the best services and facilities for pilgrims performing Hajj.

The ministry also encourages pilgrims to submit inquiries and feedback about the services through its official social media channels or by contacting the unified center at 930.


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
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Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.