An official source at the Ministry of the Interior stated that, following the previous announcement dated 14 Ramadan 1441 AH regarding the adoption of Regulations on Restricting Gatherings that Contribute to the Spread and Transmission of the Novel Coronavirus, accompanied by a table classifying violations, the regulations have been amended and the classification table updated to include additional violations of precautionary and preventive measures, along with the corresponding penalties, as follows:
Maximum of 50 people
First: The maximum number of people allowed at family and non-family gatherings inside homes, rest houses, farms, or at social events such as condolence gatherings, parties, and the like has been set at fifty people.
Penalties for Violating the Measures
Second: The penalty for private-sector establishments" failure to comply with the precautionary measures and preventive protocols announced on 6 Shawwal 1441 AH is set at 10,000 riyals.
This includes:
– Allowing entry to individuals who do not comply with the requirement to wear a medical mask, cloth mask, or any other covering for the nose and mouth.
– Providing hand sanitizers and disinfectants in designated areas.
– Taking the temperature of employees and customers at the entrances to malls and shopping centers.
– Disinfecting shopping carts and baskets after each use.
– Disinfect facilities and surfaces, and close children’s play areas, clothing fitting rooms, and similar areas.
Penalty for Intentionally Violating Precautionary Measures
Third: Determining the penalty for willfully Violation of precautionary measures and preventive protocols announced on 6 Shawwal 1441 AH: a fine of 1,000 riyals, including failure to wear medical or cloth masks or any covering for the nose and mouth, or failure to observe social distancing; refusal to have one’s temperature taken upon entering the public or private sectors; and failure to comply with the approved procedures when a temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius, in the cases specified in those procedures and measures (protocols); the penalty is doubled in the event of a repeat offense.
Enforcement of Social Distancing
The source explained that the penalties aim to enforce social distancing and regulate gatherings, which are a direct cause of the spread of the novel coronavirus, thereby ensuring that the virus’s spread is prevented and prevent it from getting out of control and spreading, emphasizing the importance of all individuals and entities complying with the approved instructions regarding health safety requirements, social distancing rules, and the prohibition of gatherings in all forms, types, and locations.
