In a move to ensure one of its toughest health regimes in the lead up to Hajj 2026, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is enforcing a “zero tolerance” food safety law from April 25, 2026. This initiative is in response to the millions of worldwide Muslims who will visit the sacred sites in Makkah, Madinah and other holy areas in 2026.
The government will have zero tolerance for food safety violations during Hajj, imposing fines of up to SAR 10 million, and imprisonment for up to 10 years.
Saudi Arabia’s “Zero Tolerance” Approach
Hajj’s sheer volume of visitors (more than 3 million) presents a significant risk of food-borne diseases. Therefore, the SFDA has opted for a zero-tolerance approach to weed out unsafe food practices, particularly with unlicensed and temporary vendors.
The policy is implemented to ensure that all food served during Hajj is cooked, stored and served in regulated environments. This is important considering the hot Saudi summer, as food can be contaminated easily and the challenge of catering to millions of people each day.
Penalties: SAR 10 million and 10 years in jail
This law imposes heavy penalties for offences against Saudi Arabia’s unified Food Law. Offenders will be subject to fines reaching SAR 10 million and/or 10 years imprisonment.
Furthermore, the authorities can also revoke or suspend licenses, close operations and restrict activities for 180 days. Such harsh measures serve as a deterrent of unsafe practices during Hajj.
What Are Off Limits?
Authorities aim to crack down on several offences that are more prevalent during Hajj. These include preparing food in unlicensed kitchens, storing food in unlicensed premises (such as at home or in a warehouse) and selling food.
It is also among the serious offences to operate a facility again after it has been shut down by the authorities. Even temporary and informal cooking and food distribution practices are prohibited if not licensed.
Tight Inspection in Sacred Cities
The crackdown takes place in major locations such as Makkah and Madinah, as well as at airports and pilgrims‘ entry points. Teams of inspectors are working 24 hours a day to monitor food processing factories and warehouses, catering establishments.
There are also checks on incoming food and pharmaceutical shipments. The aim is to establish a completely closed supply chain during the Hajj.
Public Reporting and Community Role
In a bid to enhance enforcement, the SFDA is rallying the community to report infringements via its toll-free number (19999). The public should be on the lookout for illegal vendors or secret storages.
This citizen participation model provides an additional level of monitoring and allows the response to potential threats.
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What This Means for Pilgrims?
For those performing the Hajj, eat only from licensed vendors and catering companies. It is best to eat at Hajj missions and approved kitchens.
Do not buy food from street vendors or those sources that are not reliable, even if they are giving away charity. This is for the sake of your health and safety.
FAQs
1. What are the penalties for violations of the new food safety law?
Offenders can be fined up to SAR 10 million and/or sentenced to a maximum of 10 years in prison, depending on the gravity of the infraction.
2. Is it absolutely not allowed to have unlicensed food vendors?
Yes, unlicensed food storage, production and sales are banned in Hajj 2026.
3. Is it possible to bring and cook food?
Cooking foods and unlicensed preparation are not recommended or allowed to avoid potential contamination issues, particularly in collective accommodation.
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