Saudi Arabia Sets New Rules for Wedding Venues & Event Halls
Wedding and event halls across Saudi Arabia must follow new design, safety, and sustainability rules, including teaming up with licensed food waste prevention groups.
Saudi Arabia has announced a wide range of new rules for wedding and event venues that aim to raise design standards, improve accessibility, and cut down on food waste.
The changes, announced by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, will apply to all types of event venues across the country.
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Venues Must Now Work With Food Waste Prevention Groups
One of the major updates requires event venues to officially partner with licensed organizations that prevent food and beverage waste. These groups will handle leftover food by either redistributing it safely to those in need or ensuring proper recycling.
The goal is to reduce unnecessary food waste while helping local communities.
Updated Design Standards and What’s Now Required
Under the new rules, venues can now be standalone buildings and must include basic features such as:
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Male and female restrooms
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Service rooms with attached bathrooms
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A reception area and administrative space
Optional additions like hospitality lounges, kids’ play zones, and underground parking are allowed but not required.
To improve the look of city spaces, the government also banned visible rooftop AC units and exposed wires. External designs must match the overall style of the city or region. Loading zones are only allowed to face commercial streets—not residential ones.
Stronger Rules on Accessibility and Safety
Accessibility is now a must. All venues must ensure ramps, stairs, and entryways are safe for people with disabilities. If a venue borders a residential area, it must have a solid boundary wall at least 2.4 meters high. Front-facing fences must be transparent, and parking areas should include clear pedestrian walkways.
QR Codes, E-Signs, and Legal Rules
All venues are required to display a QR code that links to their legal and operational documents. Inside the venue, electronic signs must show civil defense guidelines, emergency numbers, and official operating hours.
Operating without a license, removing closure notices, or allowing banned activities—like unauthorized traditional performances or events that break noise limits—will be considered violations.
What This Means for the Industry
These changes mark a major shift in how Saudi Arabia wants its event industry to operate—cleaner, safer, and more community-focused. With stricter guidelines now in place, event organizers and venue owners are expected to raise their game to meet national standards.