In a recent verdict announced in Riyadh, a Saudi court has imposed a combined fine of SR40,000 on two individuals-a Saudi citizen and a Yemeni national-after they were found guilty of engaging in commercial cover-up activities.

This case centers around illegal operations within the tourism accommodation sector in Abha, situated in the southern Asir region.

The Ministry of Commerce disclosed details of the conviction, noting that the Saudi individual unlawfully employed the Yemeni national to run a rental property enterprise for personal profit, bypassing the necessary foreign investment license.

 As part of their sentencing, both individuals are mandated to publicize their names and offenses in local media at their own expense.

Beyond financial penalties, several strict measures have been enforced as deterrents against future occurrences.

These include shuttering the involved business permanently, rescinding its commercial registration and licenses, and barring the Saudi citizen from participating in any business venture for five years.

In addition to these sanctions, the Yemeni national faces deportation and an indefinite ban on returning to work in Saudi Arabia.

The broader framework set by Anti-Commercial Cover-up Law regulations further outlines severe repercussions for such crimes. Culprits could face imprisonment for up to five years and fines reaching SR5 million.

Moreover, any assets procured through these illicit means are subject to confiscation upon final court decisions.