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Saudi authorities warn hotels over female guests


Sarah Jacotine, January 17th, 2016

The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTNH) has warned all providers of tourist accommodation in Saudi Arabia not to withhold services to women who are not with a guardian (mahram).

The commission stated that it is a violation of the SCTNH system if women without mahram are not accepted in these facilities, including hotels and furnished apartments, providing the woman is able to present an original ID or passport.

The same rules apply to all women wishing to use accommodation facilities in the Kingdom, whether they are Saudi nationals or visitors. 

SCTNH clarified that a woman without any ID is still permissible if accompanying a family member, such as an aunt, or housemaids not employed by the housekeeper, provided that all data of the family is registered at the facility.

However, the commission stated that individuals under the age of 18 should not be accepted unless accompanied by their families or the legitimate guardian, or in emergency situations with the knowledge of the police, Arab News reports.