Saudi Arabia bans commercial use of national, religious and sectarian symbols
The move is aimed at preventing the misuse and exploitation of those symbols
Saudi Arabia has announced a new ban preventing the commercial use of the symbols and logos of countries, as well as religious and sectarian symbols, says Gulf News.
The move is aimed at preventing the misuse and exploitation of those symbols.
The decision, issued by Minister of Commerce Dr Majed Al Qasabi reflects the Kingdom's commitment to preserving the sanctity of these emblems.
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The regulation prohibits businesses from incorporating national, religious or sectarian symbols into products, promotional materials or other commercial transactions.
Violators will face penalties under Saudi Arabia's municipal punitive regulations, with enforcement beginning 90 days after the decision's publication in the official gazette. The grace period will give businesses time to adjust to the new rules.
The ministry highlighted that the ban builds on existing measures prohibiting the use of Saudi Arabia's national flag— which features the Islamic declaration of faith and the emblem of crossed swords and a palm tree — in commercial contexts.
The restriction also extends to images and names of Saudi leaders, prohibiting their use on printed materials, goods, special gifts and promotional items.
"The decision is a necessary step to protect these symbols from misuse while upholding their cultural and religious significance," the Ministry of Commerce stated.
