Saudi Sports Ministry issues new regulations for sports ticket sales

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports announced on Monday, October 26, 2026, new regulations governing the sale and resale of tickets for sports competitions and events. The move aims to improve the regulatory framework for ticket transactions, safeguard consumer rights, curb unauthorized practices, and enhance compliance and oversight.

The ministry also revealed the launch of a ticketing platform accreditation service via the digital “Riyadi” platform, set to go live on November 15. Existing platforms will have 90 days from the issuance of the regulations to update their systems and align operations with approved technical and regulatory requirements.

Under the new rules, only organizers or platforms accredited by the Ministry of Sports may sell or resell tickets, in accordance with technical and regulatory standards that ensure transaction reliability, protect user data, and enable platforms to handle periods of high demand. The regulations also require clear mechanisms for handling complaints, inquiries, cancellations, and refund requests.

The regulations include provisions to protect consumer rights, such as disclosing ticket prices, categories, usage terms, and all related fees and commissions. They also require clear policies for cancellation, refunds, and compensation, regulate dynamic pricing mechanisms, and prohibit hidden fees or misleading pricing practices. Selling tickets through unaccredited platforms or accounts is banned, as is the use of automated programs or multiple accounts to circumvent purchase limits or undermine fair access to tickets.

The rules also mandate linking tickets to the buyer’s identity, setting limits on the number of tickets each individual can purchase, and considering the approved capacity of sports venues. Additional requirements include compliance with cybersecurity and data protection standards, as well as integration with entry systems at sports facilities.

The introduction of these regulations is part of the Ministry of Sports’ efforts to strengthen governance in the sports sector, protect consumer rights, enhance the fan experience, and provide a more reliable and transparent environment for ticket sales and resales.