A source from the ministry said Saudis have the right and priority to work and make a living in their country.

He said: “Street vendors have become a widely spread phenomenon in Saudi society. Unfortunately, most of them are expatriates selling without a license.

“Municipalities across the Kingdom should regulate this as even Saudi street vendors can only sell where they are allowed to by their respective municipalities.”

The source also said that street vendors who operate without a license face prosecution.

“Street trading licenses are given to Saudis over 15 years of age, who have their national identity card and a medical report proving that they are free of diseases,” said the source.