Saudi Arabia Bans Commercial Use of National and Religious Symbols

Riyadh, November 22 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Saudi Arabia has announced a ban on the commercial use of national, religious, and sectarian symbols and logos, aiming to prevent their misuse and uphold their sanctity.

The decision, issued by Saudi Minister of Commerce Dr. Majed Al-Qasabi, outlines strict legal measures for establishments violating the new regulations. These measures align with punitive provisions for municipal violations and will take effect 90 days after publication in the official gazette, giving businesses sufficient time to comply.

Scope of the Ban

The regulations prohibit the use of:

National symbols, including the Saudi flag, which features the Shahada (declaration of faith) and the emblem of two crossed swords and a palm tree.
Religious symbols and sectarian logos.
Images and names of Saudi leadership and officials in commercial transactions, including printed materials, goods, products, and promotional items.

Enforcement and Penalties

Businesses that fail to adapt to the new rules within the stipulated timeframe will face penalties under Saudi Arabia's punitive regulations. The Ministry of Commerce has emphasized its commitment to preserving the dignity of national and religious symbols, ensuring they are not exploited for commercial purposes.

Previous Announcements

This decision builds on earlier bans by the Ministry of Commerce, which prohibited the use of Saudi Arabia's flag and state emblem in commercial activities, as well as any misuse of leadership images in promotional materials or goods.

The move reinforces Saudi Arabia’s dedication to maintaining respect for symbols of national and religious significance, aligning with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to regulate and professionalize its commercial sector.