Regulations for mobile food trucks in Jubail and Yanbu: New requirements
Regulating modern commercial activities is a cornerstone of urban development. In this context, the Royal Commission announced the regulations for mobile food trucks in Jubail and Yanbu for the year 1447 AH (2026 CE). These new municipal regulations aim to improve the business environment, raise food safety standards, and provide a distinctive urban experience for residents and visitors, while precisely defining the geographical locations, technical specifications, and operational requirements for health, food, and non-food activities within the cities.
Historical context for developing mobile vehicle regulations in Jubail and Yanbu
Since the establishment of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu in 1975, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strived to transform these areas from mere industrial strongholds into integrated, model cities boasting the highest standards of quality of life. With the economic and social development the Kingdom is witnessing under Vision 2030, mobile food trucks have emerged as promising projects attracting young people and entrepreneurs. To ensure the sustainability of this sector, it was necessary to establish regulatory frameworks that keep pace with this rapid growth. This prompted the Commission to issue modern municipal regulations that guarantee the provision of high-quality services befitting the status of these major industrial cities and preserve their overall urban character.
The economic importance and expected impact of the new regulation
Implementing these regulations will have a significant positive impact at both the local and regional levels. Locally, the regulations will contribute to organizing the urban landscape, preventing haphazard development, and supporting entrepreneurs by providing a clear and sustainable investment environment that protects the rights of both investors and consumers. Regionally, introducing a sophisticated regulatory model in Jubail and Yanbu enhances the cities' attractiveness as leading tourist and investment destinations, encouraging other municipalities to adopt similar standards that will raise the quality of the mobile retail sector throughout the Kingdom.
Location requirements and working hours
The regulatory document specified public squares, parks, corniche areas, and event venues as permitted locations for the activity. Conversely, the authority warned against operating within residential neighborhoods, within 10 meters of gas stations, at intersections, emergency exits, and disabled parking spaces. The regulations also prohibited operating after midnight except with a special permit allowing 24-hour service, and required owners to maintain continuous operation for no more than two consecutive weeks or 30 non-consecutive days per year.
Technical and engineering specifications
The regulations stipulate that the height of the vehicle, including the sign, must not exceed 4.5 meters, its width 2.6 meters, and its length between 2.3 and 10 meters. Investors are also required to display a standardized electronic code that allows consumers and regulatory authorities transparent access to licensing data. Internally, two stainless steel sinks connected to a sealed drainage tank must be provided, and the flooring must be slip-resistant and easy to clean. Openings must be covered with metal mesh to prevent insects, and the use of gas torches for lighting is prohibited.
Food health and safety standards
In accordance with the requirements of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), the authority emphasized the provision of potable water, the storage of chilled food between 0 and 4 degrees Celsius, and frozen food below -18 degrees Celsius. Preparing meals outside the food cart is prohibited, and a separate trailer is required if charcoal or firewood is used. The regulations also stipulate that hot food must be kept at a minimum temperature of 60 degrees Celsius and consumed within a maximum of six hours. Furthermore, employees are required to obtain health certificates, wash their hands regularly, and use latex-free gloves when handling raw meat.
Security, safety, and electronic payment requirements
The authority regulated gas usage, limiting cylinders to a maximum capacity of 91 kilograms and requiring them to be mechanically attached to the outside of the vehicle. It also set a maximum limit of 450 liters for cooking oil. Furthermore, it mandated the provision of two dry chemical powder fire extinguishers and a fire blanket, as well as the use of quiet, compliant generators with an upward-facing exhaust pipe. To facilitate transactions, the authority required the provision of electronic payment methods and detailed disclosure of meat sources and allergens. Finally, it emphasized the importance of waste management through touchless containers, with violators subject to municipal penalties and preserving their right to appeal.
