Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) has urged tourism establishments to finalize implementation of the new regulations set by the commission. A statement received by Saudi Gazette stated that the commission would not allow any hotel or furnished apartment to operate unless it implements the minimum requirement of security and safety. Mohammad Al-Amri, CEO of the commission in Makkah region, called on all hotels and furnished apartments to implement the regulations in order to obtain an operation license immediately. The new system, he said, will enhance services and will develop investment in the tourism sector in line with the commission's strategic plan. The system has been put into action last Ramadan and all operators have been given one year to correct their statuses and conform with the new regulations. All hotels and furnished apartments are now required to adhere to the new system. "Violators will be fined SR100,000 and the amount may be doubled and the license revoked if the violation is committed again," the statement said. The new regulations oblige all hotels and furnished apartments to make their buildings suitable for disabled people, provide needed safely equipment and place emergency instructions and warning signs. Further regulations include providing car parking. No licenses will be given unless the buildings and areas around them are clean and all facilities are maintained. The Saudi Vision 2030 reform initiative has rejuvenated the Kingdom's tourism sector as the strategic plan aims to increase the revenue generated from tourism to 18 percent in 14 years. Analysts expect the number of tourists visiting the Kingdom to increase to 1.5 million by 2020.
