Saudi Arabia Blocks Seven Online Platforms for Offering Tourism and Umrah Services Without Meeting Regulatory Requirements

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has blocked seven online platforms after identifying violations involving the provision of travel and tourism services without meeting the required regulatory conditions.

According to the ministry, the affected platforms were offering a range of travel-related services, including tourist excursions and domestic Umrah packages, despite failing to satisfy the regulatory requirements needed to operate legally in the Kingdom.

The blocking action was carried out in coordination with the relevant authorities as part of ongoing efforts to monitor digital tourism activities and ensure that online travel platforms and tourism service providers comply with Saudi regulations.

The ministry said the measure is intended not only to address violations but also to protect tourists and Umrah pilgrims from fraud, irregular practices and services that do not meet approved quality standards.

Ministry of Tourism spokesperson Nasr Al-Ansari said the ministry continues to monitor violations across different tourism activities, including online travel platforms, and takes legal action against entities that fail to comply with the law.

He stressed that the safety of tourists and Umrah pilgrims, the protection of their rights and the quality of the services provided to them remain non-negotiable priorities for the ministry.

The ministry urged travellers and pilgrims to deal only with licensed online platforms and authorised travel and tourism offices when purchasing services, packages or excursions.

The warning is particularly important as more travellers rely on online platforms to book accommodation, transport, tours and Umrah-related services, increasing the potential risk of financial loss when dealing with unlicensed providers.

Saudi tourism authorities said monitoring of digital platforms will continue and that legal measures will be taken against any provider found offering tourism services without the required licences or regulatory approvals.

Travellers and Umrah pilgrims are advised to verify the licensing status of any platform or travel office before making payments, retain booking and payment records and use official channels when checking whether a service provider is authorised to operate in Saudi Arabia.