Saudi Arabia Rolls Out New Fine Dining Regulations to Elevate Hospitality Standards

RIYADH – July 22, 2025: In a strategic move to enhance the Kingdom’s hospitality landscape and attract both domestic and international investors, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has announced a comprehensive set of new regulations for fine dining restaurants.

The fresh framework aims to align the country’s upscale dining sector with global standards, focusing on service quality, ambience, and customer experience.

According to the ministry, fine dining establishments across Saudi Arabia must now offer:

• Full Table Service: From the moment guests arrive, restaurants are expected to provide a complete in-house dining experience, including personalised greetings at the entrance and valet parking services.
• No Drive-Thrus or Visible Cashiers: To maintain a sophisticated setting, drive-thru facilities are prohibited, and cashier counters must be hidden from public view. Payments are expected to be handled discreetly at the table.
• Digital Reservations: Restaurants must implement an online reservation system, streamlining the booking process and enhancing customer convenience.
• Open Beverage Station: An open-area drink preparation space is now required to showcase transparency and elevate the dining experience.
• Formal Complaint Process: A structured channel must be available for guests to submit feedback or lodge complaints, ensuring service accountability.

The Ministry also emphasised consistency in food offerings and ambience. Each fine dining venue must provide:

• A diverse menu with at least three key categories: appetisers, main courses, and desserts.
• A minimum of five dishes in total across the menu.
• A strict dress code for guests to uphold the elegant environment of fine dining spaces.

These regulatory changes come as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and boost non-oil sectors, including tourism, entertainment, and food services. By refining the fine dining experience, authorities hope to encourage investment, promote high-end culinary tourism, and raise the global profile of the Kingdom’s hospitality industry.