Saudi Arabia had 35,284 valid permits for round-the-clock trading at the end of September 2026, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing said, as part of its effort to regulate business activity during extra hours and give establishments more options to serve customers.

Ministry spokesman Ahmed bin Awad Al-Dhafiri said the permit gives eligible businesses flexibility to set operating hours according to demand. It is linked to a valid municipal licence and requires approval from the relevant municipality, with holders bound by the rules for their activity and regulations of the relevant government bodies.

Municipalities decide which locations and commercial streets are suitable for 24-hour activity, taking care not to affect residential neighbourhoods. The permit covers the period from midnight to 5 am, while working hours during Ramadan and Eid follow their own rules. Business owners are urged to check the requirements for their activity and location before applying.

Fuel stations, medical facilities, wedding halls, rest houses and educational activities are exempt from the fee within limits set for each activity, but he stressed they must still obtain the permit and meet municipal and security requirements, including CCTV cameras.

Applications are submitted online through the Balady platform and linked to the commercial licence without visiting an office. The permit is valid for one year, and the rules and exempt activities are published on the ministry's website.