Riyadh Shuts Down 84 Businesses in Major Food Safety Crackdown

  • 18/08/2025

Riyadh authorities have shuttered 84 businesses for violating food safety regulations during a citywide inspection campaign. The crackdown, led by the Riyadh Mayoralty and supported by security forces, targeted restaurants, butcher shops, and cafes—particularly in the bustling Manfuha district—where inspectors uncovered poor hygiene, expired products, and unsafe food storage.

In addition to closures, officials issued warnings to 531 establishments, disconnected electricity to 11 repeat offenders, and destroyed 5,300 kg of spoiled food and 25 kg of illegal tobacco. The campaign was partly driven by public complaints submitted through the Madinati app, which enables residents to report food safety concerns directly to authorities.

A senior official emphasized that the operation aims to safeguard consumers and uphold strict market oversight. Inspectors used advanced equipment and digital monitoring systems to identify violations, with plans for continued surprise checks across the city. The mayor urged residents to keep reporting violations, stressing that community vigilance is key to maintaining food safety standards.

This large-scale enforcement reflects Saudi Arabia’s zero-tolerance approach to food safety breaches. By combining public engagement, technology, and stringent penalties, Riyadh is reinforcing its commitment to public health and ensuring businesses comply with national regulations to prevent health risks.

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