Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing now requires barbers to have valid health certificates and to follow sound hygiene and health practices both before and while serving customers, Saudi Gazette reported. Cutting hair at clients' homes, outside a licensed shop, is allowed only with a specific permit.

Under the rules, men's barber shops have to clean, disinfect and sterilise any reusable tool after every customer, and throw away single-use items straight after use. Shops must also clean and sterilise all of their equipment on a regular basis.