New regulations to organize the operations of fine dining restaurants in Saudi Arabia

As part of its efforts to draw in investment and improve the business climate in the hospitality industry, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has released a series of new rules to control how fine dining establishments operate in Saudi Arabia.

The new regulations require upscale dining establishments to give a complete table service experience, which includes valet parking and greeting customers from the door to their table. The rules also forbid the establishment of cashier counters that are visible and require a dress code.

The ministry underlined that the "experience" is crucial to luxury eating and cannot be provided by fast service or outside windows, hence drive-thru services are expressly prohibited at fine dining destinations.

Additionally, restaurants need to have a visible beverage preparation station, a computerized reservation system, and a complaint submission channel. Menus must have a minimum of five items in each of the three primary categories: appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

A qualified food health and safety specialist must be employed, coat hangers and bag holders must be provided, and a hidden location for pickup orders from delivery apps must be designated so that guests cannot see it.

In order to maintain exclusivity and brand uniqueness, the restrictions also restrict restaurant chains to one location per city.

To strengthen their local and international awareness and guarantee the legal protection of their visual identity, all upscale dining restaurants must register their brand trademarks with the relevant Saudi authorities.

In line with the Kingdom's overarching objectives to increase tourism and lifestyle services, the ministry stated that these actions are intended to maintain the highest standards of hospitality and guarantee a unique client experience.