Saudi authorities have initiated a nationwide inspection campaign on the car rental businesses to ensure compliance with regulations as the country is seeking to boost its tourism sector.
The campaign is being undertaken by the Public Transport Authority (PTA), the transport regulator in the kingdom, in conjunction with the Interior Ministry, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development as well as the Ministry of Municipal and Village Affairs, according to an official.
“All governmental agencies participating in this campaign are keenly interested in regulating a vital and promising activity that serves a large category of tourists, besides being important for a big segment of citizens and expatriates,” Eng. Majed Al Zahrani, a PTA official said.
He added that the campaign, which began Monday, is aimed at ensuring the car rental providers' compliance with service standards and rules pertaining to employment of Saudi nationals.
“Success in observing Saudi employment regulations in the car rental sector has provided thousands of jobs for Saudis,” he said.
Earlier this year, the PTA launched an e-portal to regulate car rentals with a view to protecting rights of leasers and customers. “Intense field work continues to guarantee boosting service efficiency in this sector,” Al Zahrani said.
Saudi Arabia is seeking to attract foreign holidaymakers as part of an ambitious development scheme to diversify its economy.
Last year, the government unveiled an instant tourist visa system obtained online or upon arrival at the Saudi airports. Holders of those visas can visit the kingdom multiple times within a one-year period with a maximum 90 days per visit.
Saudi Arabia envisages 100 million visitors annually by 2030 against 41 million at present.
