Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has tightened the rules for barber shops. Barbers must now hold valid health certificates, keep up personal hygiene and follow proper health practices before and during each service. The ministry said the measures are meant to protect customers' health and raise the quality of services.
What the rules require
Men's barber shops must clean, disinfect and sterilise reusable tools after every use. Single-use tools must be thrown away immediately after they are used. Establishments must also clean and sterilise all equipment on a regular basis and keep service areas clean.
Home services need a permit
The ministry stressed that offering barbering at home, outside a licensed establishment, requires a specific permit. The rules are also meant to give investors and business owners clear guidance on running their businesses to approved standards, which the ministry said should improve the business environment.
Awareness before penalties
The ministry said that raising awareness of the requirements, and explaining how they should be carried out, is part of its approach to encouraging compliance before any penalties are imposed. Its stated aim is to help business owners meet their obligations and make health standards a consistent part of daily operations.
What is not yet clear
The available information does not say when the rules take effect, what penalties apply for breaches, or how inspections will be carried out. It also does not describe how a home-service permit is applied for. Business owners who want those details should look for them from the ministry directly.
