Saudi's new food establishment rules: What's next for restaurants?

Gulf Business

2 days ago

Image credit: Getty Images
On August 10, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing adopted updated municipal requirements aimed at regulating food establishments across the kingdom. The move is part of a broader effort to create an integrated operational environment that aligns with public health and safety standards. The new regulations apply to five categories of food businesses: restaurants that prepare and serve meals on-site and for delivery, cafes serving beverages and snacks, cloud kitchens focused on online orders, and food kiosks operating in malls and markets.
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The requirements mandate compliance with the Saudi Building Code, covering electrical systems, ventilation, air conditioning, and sanitation. They also specify safety features such as non-slip flooring, fire- and moisture-resistant ceilings, and efficient drainage systems. Employees must wear professional attire, carry identification cards, maintain personal hygiene, and avoid using facilities for residential purposes. Smoking is banned indoors except in designated areas,
The ministry emphasised that these measures are designed to enhance regulatory oversight, standardise procedures, and improve the overall experience for visitors and beneficiaries. These updates are part of ongoing efforts to elevate operational standards across various sectors.
Food labelling regulations to improve consumer awareness
Earlier this year, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) announced new technical regulations to improve transparency in the food industry and empower consumers with detailed nutritional information. Starting July 1, 2025, all food establishments will be required to display nutritional details on menus—both physical and online—as well as on digital food ordering platforms.
These regulations will include a 'saltshaker' icon next to meals high in sodium,
Three key technical regulations to promote healthy dietary habits
On February 27, 2025,
Caffeine content disclosure:
Restaurants and cafes must clearly label the caffeine content of beverages on menus, specifying milligrams per 100ml or per cup. A statement will remind consumers that the maximum recommended daily caffeine intake for adults is 400mg. To assist consumers, the SFDA launched an
High salt content labeling:
Menu items containing over 5 grams of salt (2,000mg sodium) must be marked with a 'Salt' icon on all menus and online ordering platforms. This measure aims to raise awareness of high-sodium foods and reduce excessive salt consumption linked to various health issues.
Physical activity calorie burn labelling:
Menus must indicate the estimated time required to burn the calories from each menu item through physical activity. Illustrative icons will show the type and duration of activity needed, helping consumers better understand the energy impact of their food choices.
These initiatives reflect the SFDA's preventative strategy to increase life expectancy and lower the burden of diet-related diseases in the country.
Coordinated approach to enhancing food safety and nutrition
Together, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing and the SFDA's recent measures mark a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia's efforts to improve food safety, transparency, and public health. By introducing rigorous building and operational standards alongside comprehensive nutritional labeling requirements, the government is addressing multiple facets of food consumption, from hygiene and infrastructure to informed dietary choices.
As Saudi Arabia continues its Vision 2030 reforms, these integrated regulations serve not only to protect consumers but also to encourage healthier lifestyles, reduce chronic disease prevalence, and elevate service standards within the food industry. Food establishments across the country will need to adapt to these new rules by mid-2025 to ensure compliance and support the nation's long-term health objectives.