Fine dining in Saudi Arabia is getting a serious upgrade. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has rolled out a detailed code for upscale restaurants. These new rules aim to define what luxury service should look like, from how guests are greeted to where the menu is placed.
Saudi Arabia Issues New Regulations For Fine-Dining Restaurants
Are you running a fine-dining spot in Saudi Arabia? If you plan on to even open one, here’s what you need to know. The Kingdom is raising the bar on luxury, and it’s serious about the details.
Full Table Service Is Now Mandatory In Saudi Arabia
Restaurants must now offer a proper seated service experience. That means:
- Greeting guests at the entrance
- Escorting them to their tables
- Serving everything at the table
- Providing valet parking service
Fast Food Features? Not Anymore
Certain elements often seen in casual dining are no longer allowed. These include:
- Visible cashier counters
- Drive-thru windows
- Payment terminals in guest view
Transactions must happen discreetly, out of sight. The idea is to keep the atmosphere calm, elegant, and uninterrupted.
Menus Must Follow A Clear Format
Forget one-page menus with three random dishes. The new dining code requires:
- Three clear sections: appetisers, mains, and desserts
- A minimum of five items total
- Thoughtful curation, not just quantity
The layout and content of menus now contribute to the restaurant’s fine-dining status.
Restaurants Must Meet Service Standards
To maintain hygiene and service quality, restaurants now need to:
- Employ a certified food health and safety specialist
- Provide coat hangers and bag holders at each table
- Set up a visible dry bar for non-alcoholic drinks
- Offer a complaint submission channel that’s structured
Digital Systems and Delivery Rules Apply
Modern hospitality also means smart systems. Under the new regulations, restaurants must:
- Use a digital reservation platform
- Designate a hidden area for delivery pickups
- Avoid letting delivery drivers near the main dining space
The guest experience stays protected from outside disruptions.
One Restaurant, One City Rule For Saudi Arabia
To keep things exclusive, the Ministry recommends:
- Limiting each brand to one branch per city
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Bans & All Beverages At 2034 World Cup! Details Inside!
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is raising the bar for what qualifies as fine dining. It’s not just about fancy interiors or expensive dishes. It’s about structure, service, and attention to detail. For restaurant owners, that means stepping up every part of the guest journey. For diners, it means a more refined and thoughtful experience across the Kingdom.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ xavierarnau from Getty Images
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