Protection from Deceptive Practices
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Saudi royal decrees, regulations, and ministerial decisions.
Saudi National Law
What is this right?
Saudi law prohibits businesses from misleading consumers:
- False advertising: Businesses cannot make false or misleading claims about a product's features, quality, origin, or price.
- Bait-and-switch: Advertising a product at a low price to lure customers and then pushing a different, more expensive product is illegal.
- Hidden fees: The total price must be clearly displayed including VAT. Surprise charges after purchase are prohibited.
- Counterfeit goods: Selling fake or imitation products as genuine brands is a criminal offence under the Commercial Fraud Law.
- Price gouging: The MoC monitors prices of essential goods and can impose price controls during emergencies or shortages.
Violations can result in fines up to SAR 1,000,000, store closure, and criminal prosecution for fraud.
When does it apply?
- A seller misrepresented a product — it does not match what was advertised.
- You were charged hidden fees or a price different from what was displayed.
- You suspect you bought a counterfeit product.
What should you do?
- Document the deception — take screenshots of advertisements, keep receipts, and photograph the product.
- Report to the Ministry of Commerce by calling 1900 or using the MoC app — include your evidence.
- For counterfeit goods, you can also report to Saudi Customs or the police.
- Request a refund from the seller — you are entitled to your money back if the product was misrepresented.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not knowingly buy counterfeit goods — while buyers are generally not penalized, these products may be unsafe.
- Do not delete evidence of misleading advertisements or communications with the seller.
- Do not assume verbal promises are enforceable — get offers and guarantees in writing.
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