RIYADH, Aug 15 (Bernama-SPA) -- Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has approved updates to the regulations governing Haj season accommodation activities, licensing and classification standards as well as the schedule of violations applicable to facilities designated to host pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.
The updates aim to improve hospitality facilities' readiness, enhance service quality and regulate operations in preparation for the Haj season of 1448 AH, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
Ministry of Tourism Spokesperson Nasr Alansari said the updates are intended to strengthen the regulatory and operational framework, and ensure that facilities are fully prepared before commencing operations and receiving pilgrims.
The requirements include verifying operational readiness, meeting safety and maintenance standards, ensuring continuity of essential services and complying with operational requirements to provide pilgrims with a safe and well-organised stay.
The standards classify Haj season accommodation facilities into economy and first-class categories, with specific requirements for each category.
They also address various aspects of accommodation operations, including common areas, rooms, reception areas, cleanliness, maintenance and guest services.
They also provide for multiple stages of inspection and oversight before licensing, prior to commencing operations and throughout the operational period, thereby enhancing compliance and service quality.
The ministry affirmed that hosting pilgrims is both a shared and national responsibility that reflects a long-standing historical legacy spanning hundreds of years.
Accordingly, the ministry has worked to develop standards for Haj season accommodation facilities to enhance service quality, provide a safe and enriching hospitality experience for pilgrims and reflect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s status and its continued commitment to serving pilgrims.
The ministry called on those seeking licenses for Haj 1448 AH accommodation facilities to begin fulfilling the requirements early, complete all necessary maintenance and preparation work and submit their license applications.
-- BERNAMA-SPA