A survey by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) has found that about 3,000 firms were operating in the sector without license.

“We have also observed 4,239 violations from various firms and closed 490 firms,” said Saad Al-Qahtani, head of the hospitality sector at SCTA. He emphasized SCTA’s efforts in ensuring the quality of services being offered by the various tourism-related firms in association with other departments.

About 20 specialized international companies have newly entered the hospitality market as a result of the commission’s efforts, he said.

The SCTA, in coordination with the Public Security, has set out conditions to ensure security at hotels and furnished apartments by installing cameras that comply with the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization.

“Police will inspect hospitality facilities in coordination with SCTA.”