Saudi Arabia releases new rules for fine-dining restaurants
True luxury experiences await
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has recently unveiled a new set of rules and regulations for fine-dining restaurants to follow to maintain their high-class status. Read on to find out more about the new Saudi Arabia fine-dining restaurant code.
As part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to attract more international investments and enhance the environment in the hospitality sector. Under the updated rules, fine-dining restaurants have to provide a full table service experience, including welcoming guests from the entrance to their table and offering valet parking per Saudi Gazette.
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has issued a set of new regulations to organize the operations of fine dining restaurants in Saudi Arabia, as part of efforts to attract investment and enhance the business environment in the hospitality sector.https://t.co/rhHCYKSH1l
— Saudi Gazette (@Saudi_Gazette) July 22, 2025
Regulations
The new regulations also include a new dress code policy and prohibit the presence of visible cashier counters. Luxury restaurants are also no longer allowed to have drive-thrus, as a fine-dining experience cannot be delivered through fast service or exterior windows.
Restaurants must also have a digital reservation system, provide visible beverage preparation stations (dry bars), and create a complaint submission channel for guests to submit their feedback.
Maintaining excellence
According to the new Saudi Arabia fine-dining restaurant code, menus need to be divided into three categories: appetisers, main courses, and desserts. With no fewer than five items in total. The restaurant also needs to employ a certified food health and safety specialist. Venues also need to provide coat hangers and bag holders for a top experience.
Restaurants eyeing the fine-dining category also need to provide a separate area for pickup orders from delivery apps, ensuring it is not visible to guests. Companies are also advised to cap a restaurant at one branch per brand, per city, to ensure standards are met and exclusivity is maintained.
Visit: momah.gov.sa
Images: Getty
