The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has explained that the 20-hour policy applied at tourism hospitality facilities in the Kingdom is in line with international standards, as the rules require that the period between check-in and check-out times be no less than 20 hours, with the times specified in the booking document.
A hospitality facility has the right to set check-in and check-out times in the booking document in a way that suits its location and target guest category, without prejudice to guests' right to a period of no less than 20 hours for using the service under the booking document, from the check-in time to the check-out time. A guest's late arrival does not change the pre-set check-out time stated on the booking document, according to a post on the Saudi Ministry of Tourism's account on X.
Regarding some inquiries about late check-in that have circulated in the media, the ministry explained that if a guest checks in at 10 p.m. and the booking document specifies a check-out time of 12 noon, the check-out time remains 12 noon the following day, and the lost hours are the guest's responsibility. If the guest checks in at any hour within the same specified check-in day, the check-out time is also 12 noon.
The policy aims to give hospitality facilities enough time to prepare the room for the next guest, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and service quality. The ministry also said this period is calculated according to what is documented in the booking document approved by the facility.
The Saudi Ministry of Tourism stressed that guests' rights include receiving the same room type, features, services and photos displayed on booking platforms, urging tourists and visitors to review check-in and check-out policies before completing their booking.
The ministry called on anyone with comments to contact the Unified Tourism Center at 930 to ensure that rights are protected and complaints are addressed, affirming that it will continue its monitoring and awareness efforts to enhance the tourist experience in line with international standards.
To view the post on the Saudi Ministry of Tourism's account on X, click here.
