Saudi Arabia food and dining rules have taken a major turn as the Kingdom introduced a fresh set of regulations to govern what is served, how it’s served, and who is allowed to operate food businesses in the region. These changes, introduced by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs, are aimed at elevating food safety standards, encouraging healthy eating, and preserving cultural values.
The announcement, made on June 15, 2025, applies to all restaurants, cafes, hotels, catering services, and food delivery businesses operating within the Kingdom. With an eye on Vision 2030, the government is tightening control on food practices while also aligning with global standards in hygiene and consumer protection.
Here are the 10 major changes in Saudi Arabia food and dining rules that every resident, tourist, and food business must know.
1. Ban on Artificial Food Coloring in Popular Dishes
The new rules prohibit the use of artificial food coloring in traditional Saudi dishes like kabsa, harees, and samboosa. Only natural colorings are now permitted. The SFDA stated that excessive use of chemicals was putting public health at risk. Violators may face fines of up to SAR 50,000.
2. Mandatory Calorie Display on Menus
All restaurants and cafés must now clearly display calorie counts on physical menus, digital boards, and food delivery apps. This rule is introduced to help consumers make informed dietary choices. Chains that do not comply within the 60-day grace period risk suspension of their operating licenses.
3. No Raw or Rare Meat in Public Restaurants
Raw or undercooked meat dishes, including rare steaks and sushi with raw fish, are banned in dine-in outlets. This rule is focused on preventing foodborne illnesses, which have been on the rise. Only registered suppliers can offer such dishes under tight temperature control and packaging, mostly for private consumption.
4. Women-Only Dining Sections Removed
In a major cultural shift, the requirement for gender-segregated dining spaces in restaurants has been lifted. Businesses are no longer obligated to offer separate dining areas for women and families. This is part of a broader move toward gender equality and modernization under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reforms.
5. Imported Ingredients Must Pass Saudi Standards
Imported ingredients used in food preparation must now have SFDA approval. Ingredients like cheese, sauces, processed meats, and seasonings that do not meet Saudi nutritional and safety standards will be banned. All food businesses must update their supplier lists by August 2025.
6. Restaurant Hygiene Grading Goes Public
The SFDA will now assign hygiene grades (A, B, C, or F) to every restaurant and food outlet. These grades must be publicly displayed at the entrance and on official websites. Establishments receiving grade F will be shut down until compliance is achieved.
7. No Reheating Food in Open Flames
Restaurants and food trucks are banned from reheating precooked food directly over open flames. Only approved microwave or steam-based systems may be used. This aims to reduce contamination risks and maintain food quality standards.
8. Freshwater Use in Cleaning is Now Monitored
Due to increasing concerns over water scarcity, the Ministry has introduced a cap on freshwater usage for dishwashing and cleaning in commercial kitchens. Businesses must adopt water recycling systems or risk a fine and mandatory shutdown for repeated violations.
9. Halal Certification Made Compulsory for All Menus
Even if a restaurant claims to serve halal food, it must now acquire official Halal Certification from a registered Saudi authority. This rule applies to both local and international food chains. Non-compliance could lead to criminal penalties, especially in cases of deliberate misrepresentation.
10. Food Delivery Packaging Must Be Tamper-Proof
All food delivery services must now use tamper-proof packaging. Transparent seals and time-stamped labels are mandatory. This move is designed to improve food safety in the booming online delivery market, which has grown by over 30% since 2022.
Public and Industry Reaction
These new Saudi Arabia food and dining rules have triggered mixed reactions across the Kingdom.
Local citizens, especially health-conscious families, welcomed the ban on artificial colorings and calorie transparency. “I now know what I’m feeding my children,” said Mariam Al-Dossari, a Riyadh-based mother of three.
However, restaurant owners and small café operators voiced concerns about compliance costs. “We support hygiene and safety, but the sudden implementation without subsidies is going to hurt small businesses,” said Faisal Al-Qatani, who runs a café in Jeddah.
Foreign tourists, especially those unfamiliar with local customs, appreciated the removal of gender-segregated dining and clear labeling on menus. The tourism ministry hopes these reforms will enhance Saudi Arabia’s appeal as a modern destination.
Why These Changes Matter
Saudi Arabia is rapidly transforming its image from a closed society to a globally connected hub. The revised food and dining rules are part of a broader economic and social strategy under Vision 2030. By enhancing public health, protecting consumers, and improving transparency, the Kingdom aims to reduce its dependence on oil and increase revenues from hospitality and tourism.
Moreover, these reforms align with Saudi Arabia’s aspirations to become a regional leader in food safety. The SFDA has been collaborating with international bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) to ensure that its regulations meet global best practices.
What Happens Next
The government has launched a 90-day transition phase, during which authorities will educate, inspect, and assist businesses with the required changes. Helplines, online portals, and training workshops are being rolled out to support implementation.
After the grace period, strict penalties will apply for violations—including fines, license suspensions, and even permanent closures.
For tourists and locals alike, this means a cleaner, safer, and more transparent dining experience in Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion:
The introduction of these Saudi Arabia food and dining rules marks a major step toward modernization and global alignment. Whether you’re a visitor, a local diner, or a restaurant operator, staying updated with these rules is now essential.
As the Kingdom opens its doors to the world, it’s also tightening its grip on food safety and dining culture—bringing in a new era of regulation, responsibility, and reform.
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