Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh

Riyadh, Aug 18: Saudi authorities have closed 84 food-related businesses in Riyadh following a city-wide crackdown on food safety violations. The operation, led by the Riyadh mayoralty with support from security agencies, aimed to safeguard consumers and uphold quality standards across the capital.

The shutdowns included restaurants, cafés, street vendors, butcher shops, and warehouses. Officials confiscated over 31,000 products, issued 531 warnings, disconnected power at 11 sites, and recorded more than 400 violations. Unsafe food items weighing over 5,300 kg and 25 kg of illegal tobacco products were destroyed during the campaign.

The operation focused heavily on the Manfuha district and was partly triggered by resident complaints through the “Madinaty” mobile app, which allows citizens to report unsafe practices directly to authorities.

Authorities emphasized that the campaign reflects ongoing efforts to protect public health, enhance market integrity, and enforce strict regulations across Riyadh’s growing food sector. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report violations to support continued inspections and ensure food safety compliance.