Riyadh Season is one of the Kingdom’s most prominent entertainment events, combining commercial, tourism, and cultural activities while attracting thousands of companies and investors from inside and outside Saudi Arabia. With this massive participation comes the responsibility of adhering to Saudi laws and regulations that govern commercial practices, ensure the safety of visitors and workers, and maintain compliance with environmental and security standards.

1. Obtaining the Required Licenses and Permits

The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and the Ministry of Commerce require all companies participating in Riyadh Season events to obtain the necessary permits before commencing operations, including:

  • A commercial activity license from the Ministry of Commerce.

  • An event activity permit from the General Entertainment Authority.

  • A safety certificate from the General Directorate of Civil Defense to ensure that event venues comply with safety and security standards.

Operating without these permits is a legal violation that may result in immediate business closure or license revocation.

2. Compliance with Safety and Public Health Standards

Companies must comply with Saudi-approved safety standards, including:

  • Installing fire extinguishing and early warning systems in all facilities.

  • Providing clear emergency exits and directional signage.

  • Adhering to food safety and hygiene regulations for food and beverage activities.

  • Training staff on evacuation plans and emergency response, in coordination with Civil Defense.

These requirements aim to ensure a safe environment for both visitors and staff, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries at event venues.

3. Adherence to Environmental Regulations

Companies are required to comply with the standards of the National Center for Environmental Compliance (CECC) by:

  • Managing waste through environmentally friendly methods.

  • Reducing noise and emissions caused by event activities.

  • Using recyclable materials whenever possible.

Failure to comply may result in financial penalties or suspension of activities under the Saudi Environmental Law.

4. Protecting Consumer and Visitor Rights

Participating companies must adhere to the Consumer Protection Law and the E-Commerce Law when dealing with visitors. Key obligations include:

  • Providing clear and transparent pricing and service information.

  • Offering refunds or compensation in cases of cancellation or service defects.

  • Protecting visitors’ personal data and images in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL).

5. Labor Obligations

Under the Saudi Labor Law, participating companies must:

  • Document employee contracts via the Qiwa or Mudad platforms.

  • Ensure a safe and hazard-free workplace.

  • Comply with regulations regarding working hours and weekly rest for event staff.

Conclusion

Compliance with Saudi regulations during Riyadh Season is not merely a formal requirement — it is fundamental for maintaining participation and building trust with regulators and the public. Balancing profitability with legal responsibility reflects a company’s maturity and respect for Saudi law, ensuring a safe, organized, and exceptional experience for all visitors.