A 97% regulatory coverage rate was achieved for food establishments during the first half of 2026 through tours conducted by municipalities to monitor health requirement compliance.
According to SPA, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing is developing the food safety system across the Kingdom by updating health requirements, improving field oversight efficiency, and using technical solutions to monitor food facilities.
The ministry is updating technical and health requirements for food establishments and improving the electronic issuance of health certificates for workers. Efforts include qualifying sector personnel and improving food safety practices.
Municipalities are conducting field tours of restaurants, kitchens, and food stores to verify health compliance and monitor food preparation, storage, and handling. Non-compliant establishments face legal measures based on recorded violations.
Portable cameras have been adopted as a primary tool for smart oversight, documenting tours and linking them to the Mumtathil application to increase transparency for inspectors and owners. These efforts are integrated with coordination between municipalities and health and food safety authorities.
The ministry called on the public to report violations via the 940 unified number or the Balady platform to support oversight and food safety.
What was the regulatory coverage rate for food establishments in early 2026? The regulatory coverage rate for food establishments reached 97% during the first half of 2026. This was achieved through field tours carried out by municipalities to ensure compliance with health requirements and to reduce violating practices.
How is the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing utilizing smart oversight? The ministry has adopted portable cameras as a primary tool within its smart oversight system. These cameras document field tours and link them directly to the Mumtathil application, which serves to increase transparency and protect the rights of both inspectors and establishment owners.
What specific improvements are being made to food establishment requirements? The ministry is updating the technical and health requirements for food establishments. Additionally, it is developing health certificates for workers by improving the efficiency of their electronic issuance and qualifying the personnel working within the food sector.