The Saudis, known for their strict adherence to Shariah laws, have recently progressed in technology and societal aspects as they attempt to rebrand themselves as a modern state. Keeping that in mind, concerned authorities have decided not to close businesses during prayer time because they want to create a 24 hours business environment and a promising economy.
Dr Al Gaith, a member of Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council, expressed “There is no legal base for closing shops for prayer after amending the bylaws of the authority. Forcing shops to close their doors and people to pray right at the beginning of prayer time, and to do this in a mosque, stands no ground – neither in Shariah nor in law.”
“Rather is rather a breach of both of them, and an infringement on people’s religious rights (right of Ijtihad freedom to follow a reference) and worldly rights (freedom of movement, shopping, benefiting of services round the clock without being forced to abide by judicial matters subject to conflict and differences.”
Saudi Arabia is now aiming to become tourist-friendly. Non-Muslims are allowed to visit the country and last year the government granted permanent residence to a foreigner. A few years back, it was near to impossible.
