Introduction to the New Naming Regulations in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has recently introduced a comprehensive set of binding regulations governing the naming of public facilities across the Kingdom. These new rules aim to establish unified standards, governance frameworks, and clear religious and administrative restrictions. The regulations were approved by the Saudi Cabinet and are set to take effect 120 days after publication, as announced in the Umm Al Qura official Gazette.
Scope of the Regulations
The rules apply to all publicly owned facilities nationwide, including municipal buildings, schools, cultural centers, sports arenas, and transportation hubs. According to reports, public facilities are broadly defined to encompass government-owned assets across multiple sectors, such as education, culture, sports, religion, health, and transportation. Each government entity will be responsible for naming facilities under its control, ensuring compliance with the new regulations and existing laws.
Governance and Procedural Standards
Government bodies are required to issue their own executive bylaws outlining procedural, technical, organizational, and operational standards for naming decisions. Governance mechanisms must also be established to oversee and enforce these decisions internally. This ensures that the naming process is transparent, consistent, and aligned with national policies.
Prohibitions and Restrictions
The regulations introduce stringent prohibitions on certain names. Public facilities may not be named after Kings of Saudi Arabia, Crown Princes, or leaders of friendly or allied states without prior approval from the King. Names that contradict Islamic Sharia are explicitly banned. Additionally, restrictions extend to the use of the names of God. Only seven names are permitted when naming public facilities: Al Salam, Al Adl, Al Awwal, Al Nur, Al Haqq, Al Shahid, and Al Malik.
Verification and Approval Process
Where facilities are named after individuals, authorities must verify a candidate’s integrity, including their intellectual orientation and criminal or security record, in coordination with relevant bodies. The chosen name must also be appropriate to the individual’s status and standing. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing will issue official naming categories following coordination with concerned authorities, and government entities must adhere to these classifications. Final approval of facility names rests with the head of the relevant entity, though this authority may be delegated.
Flexibility in Naming
To increase flexibility, the regulations permit numerical designations to be used in naming public facilities, either independently or in combination with names. This allows for a more dynamic and adaptable approach to facility naming while maintaining consistency and clarity.
Database and Record-Keeping
In a bid to enhance coordination and consistency, each government entity must also establish and maintain a comprehensive database of public facility names under its jurisdiction. These records must be updated regularly and submitted annually to the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information. This ensures that all information is current and accessible for future reference.
Repeal of Previous Regulations
The new framework also repeals previous regulations related to the naming of streets and squares contained in earlier Cabinet decisions, as well as any conflicting provisions. This helps to streamline the naming process and eliminate inconsistencies.
Additional Regulatory Measures
In addition to the naming regulations, Saudi Arabia has also introduced new rules for the commercial use of public sidewalks and stricter penalty rules for violations. These measures aim to ensure that public spaces are used responsibly and in accordance with national guidelines.
Conclusion
The introduction of these new regulations marks a significant step towards standardizing the naming of public facilities in Saudi Arabia. By establishing clear guidelines, enforcing strict prohibitions, and promoting transparency, the Kingdom aims to create a more organized and respectful environment for its citizens and visitors alike. The emphasis on religious and administrative compliance underscores the importance of maintaining cultural and historical values while adapting to modern needs.
