ع
The Madinah Mayoralty has prohibited guests from using portable gas stoves and cylinders at hospitality facilities across the city, Saudi Gazette reported on April 13, 2026. The measure seeks to enhance public safety, prevent fire hazards and enforce municipal regulations, with dedicated inspection teams deployed to monitor compliance. Penalties will apply under relevant public safety laws for any violations detected during checks.[[1]](https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/660516)
Gulf News reported that the Ministry of Tourism instructed all tourist hospitality facilities in Madinah to bar guests from bringing such items into hotels, furnished apartments and similar venues. The directive requires operators to inform visitors upon arrival and maintain strict oversight to uphold the restriction. This step forms part of coordinated national efforts to standardise safety practices in the sector serving both residents and international guests.[[2]](https://gulfnews.com/world/mena/saudi-arabia-bans-guests-from-bringing-gas-stoves-into-hotels-over-safety-concerns-1.500506370)
A field assessment published on ResearchGate found that fires in residential buildings account for 69 percent of all building fires across Saudi Arabia. Gas cylinder incidents frequently arise from leaks or improper use, according to compiled industry data on compressed gas risks. The Madinah policy draws on the Saudi Building Code for fire safety, which sets design and operational guidelines for occupied facilities including those in the hospitality industry.[[3]](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/245309967_Assessing_safety_measures_in_residential_buildings_in_Saudi_Arabia)
The Saudi Civil Defence and Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization provide the overarching regulatory framework that includes periodic hydrostatic testing of cylinders every five years. Analyses of fire protection services in the kingdom indicate that certified suppression systems can reduce potential damage by up to 70 percent. The ban eliminates a documented hazard in high-occupancy environments while aligning with these established technical requirements.[[4]](https://dar-alhmaya.com/en/fire-extinguisher-types-in-saudi-arabia/)
The restriction has prompted advisory notices to international pilgrims, including alerts from SUPKEM to Kenyan Hajj visitors about the updated rules in Madinah hotels. Such communications ensure travellers prepare appropriately ahead of stays in the city, which sees surges in religious tourism throughout the year. Local authorities have integrated the ban into broader awareness initiatives targeting both operators and guests.
Saudi Gazette noted that the decision supports national standards aimed at protecting lives and property in hospitality settings, particularly amid elevated seasonal demand. Inspection protocols now incorporate checks for prohibited appliances in guest areas and common spaces. The Madinah Mayoralty will continue coordinating with national bodies to refine enforcement as needed.
