Saudi Arabia implements new regulations prohibiting names that contravene sharia in public institutions nationwide | Global News
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New Regulations on Naming Public Facilities in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has unveiled a comprehensive framework governing the naming practices of public facilities across the Kingdom. Recently approved by the Saudi Cabinet and published in the Umm Al-Qura Gazette, these regulations aim to unify naming practices, strengthen administrative oversight, and ensure compliance with Islamic principles. The new rules will come into effect 120 days post-publication and will apply to all publicly owned facilities nationwide.
Defining the Scope and Responsibility
According to the Saudi Gazette, the new rules broadly define public facilities, covering municipal buildings, educational institutions, cultural centers, sports venues, religious sites, healthcare establishments, transport infrastructure, and other government-owned assets. Each government entity will be responsible for naming facilities under its jurisdiction, in accordance with the unified framework and relevant laws.
To implement this system, entities must issue their own executive bylaws. These regulations will outline organizational, technical, procedural, and operational requirements, along with governance mechanisms to oversee naming decisions.
Clear Restrictions and Religious Guidelines
The new regulations introduce strict restrictions on naming practices. Public facilities cannot be named after Kings of Saudi Arabia, Crown Princes, or leaders of allied nations without explicit approval from the King. Names that contradict Islamic Sharia are also strictly forbidden. Moreover, the use of the Names of God is limited to seven approved titles: Al-Salam, Al-Adl, Al-Awwal, Al-Nur, Al-Haqq, Al-Shahid, and Al-Malik.
When naming a facility after an individual, authorities must verify the person’s integrity, which includes reviewing their intellectual orientation, criminal history, and security record, in coordination with relevant bodies. The chosen name must adequately reflect the individual’s status and public standing.
Approval Process and Record Management
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing will issue official naming categories after consulting relevant authorities. All government entities are required to comply with these classifications, with the ultimate approval of any facility name residing with the head of the respective entity, who may delegate this authority if necessary.
Flexibility is provided through the option to use numerical designations alongside names. To ensure coordination and consistency, each entity must maintain a comprehensive database of all public facility names under its jurisdiction. These records must be updated regularly and shared annually with the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information.
Repeal of Previous Rules and Broader Implications
This new framework replaces earlier provisions regarding the naming of streets and squares, overriding any conflicting regulations. This initiative is part of broader efforts to modernize administrative practices, standardize public naming, and reinforce alignment with religious principles, governance requirements, and national identity.
By establishing clear guidelines, Saudi Arabia aims to create a unified, transparent, and culturally consistent approach to naming public facilities, ensuring that each decision reflects the Kingdom’s values and administrative standards.
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