The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage ordered all licensed museums in the Kingdom to have women-only hours.

A source from the commission said the authority is responsible for licensing all historical and heritage events and institutions.

The commission stated that all licensed museums should have two shifts: the first shift from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and the second shift from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The commission has allowed temporary exhibitions and museums to charge an entry fee but the organizers must apply for approval from the authority, said the source.

The source also said museums and exhibitions must also obtain the approval of the commission for their names.

“The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage does not give approval to name museums and exhibitions after prophets, caliphs, kings, countries or holy places,” said the source.

The source said the commission has regulations on the size of the space as well.

“A single hall in a museums or exhibition should not have an area less than 40 sq. meters. The ceiling should not be lower than three meters high. The building should have emergency exits and should have a suitable temperature,” said the source.

The source also said the commission rates the museums according to their status as A, B and C.

“The commission looks into the significance of the collection of artifacts in the museums, the status of the building and its independence from any appurtenances, the availability of required facilities, the location, the orientation and tour guide program, maintenance of building, maintenance of artifacts, security of building, and adherence to safety and security measures,” said the source.

He said all museums can apply to win the Saudi Museum Emblem.

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