10-Year Jail Terms and & 10 Million Fines Set for Hajj Food Violations

Penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching SAR 10 million have been set for unlicensed food activities during the 2026 Hajj season, according to the Saudi Food and Drug Authority

The measures apply to activities such as manufacturing or storing food without the required permits, as part of efforts to enforce compliance with the Food Law and its implementing regulations.

Authorities said a zero-tolerance approach will be enforced, including a ban on storing products outside licensed facilities and restrictions preventing closed establishments from resuming operations without regulatory approval.

The sale of products that do not meet approved standards is also prohibited. Violations may result in a range of penalties, including financial fines, custodial sentences, suspension from food-related activities for up to 180 days, and the revocation or suspension of licences for up to one year.

The framework is part of wider coordination to strengthen food safety during the Hajj season, with multiple government entities working to ensure compliance across the supply chain.