In Saudi Arabia, advertising regulation is multi-faceted, incorporating several laws and regulations that reflect the country's strict governance and cultural norms:
Primary Regulations:
Printed Materials and Publication Law 2000: Requires a license from the Ministry of Media for advertising activities.
Audiovisual Media Law 2017 and its Regulations: This law includes content-related restrictions for media, including advertising, ensuring that advertisements do not contain misleading representations, defame any product or person, or violate public order and morals.
E-Commerce Law 2019: Prohibits false or misleading electronic advertisements and the unauthorized use of logos or trademarks.
Billboard Advertising: Governed by the Rules of Regulating Advertisements and Publicity Boards 1991, which sets specific standards for outdoor advertising .
Sector-Specific Regulations: There are detailed rules for advertising certain products like pharmaceuticals, food supplements, investment materials, and tobacco, all of which must be licensed by the competent authorities.
Cultural and Ethical Considerations: Given the conservative Islamic values of Saudi Arabia, the content of advertisements must adhere to the general rules of etiquette, preserve family values, and not offend religious sensibilities.
Enforcement and Remedies: Violations of these laws can result in fines, suspension from professional practice, or even revocation of licenses. The Ministry of Media and other regulatory bodies actively enforce these regulations, and aggrieved parties have the right to appeal decisions through established judicial processes.
Overall, advertising in Saudi Arabia requires careful compliance with a complex set of regulations that reflect both the legal framework and the cultural ethos of the country.
