Saudi Arabia bans mobile vendors in 9 locations: check the prohibited areas

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has clarified the rules governing the work of mobile vendors across the Kingdom, barring them from nine types of location. The measures are intended to protect public facilities, improve the quality of life in cities, and safeguard road safety and the smooth flow of traffic.

“Mobile vendors are not allowed to work in the following areas,” said Ministry spokesman Mohammed Al-Rasasmeh.

The nine prohibited locations

1.    Road intersections

2.    Central road medians

3.    Parking spaces reserved for persons with disabilities

4.    Entrances and exits of main roads

5.    Areas near traffic lights

6.    Public parking areas

7.    Bicycle lanes

8.    Roads with heavy traffic

9.    Locations designated for police, traffic, civil defence, and ambulance services

The restrictions are designed to prevent vending activities that could create safety hazards, block traffic, or interfere with the proper use of public spaces and areas set aside for essential services.

Why these areas are restricted

The ministry said the regulations weigh several factors, including public safety, traffic flow, the proper use of public facilities, and quality of life in Saudi cities. Keeping vendors away from busy streets, intersections, emergency-service points, pedestrian and cycling areas, and designated parking, it said, reduces potential risks and preserves those facilities for their intended use.

How to report violations

The ministry has urged the public to report any violations linked to mobile vendor activity, which can be done through:

•    The unified number 940
•    The Balady application

Public reporting, the ministry said, helps authorities act quickly and contributes to maintaining the safety of roads and public facilities. Mobile vendors, for their part, are required to comply with the locations and requirements set out in the regulations and to avoid operating in any of the restricted areas.

Source: Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, Saudi Arabia. Riyadh, August 17, 2026.