As Kuwait's banking community tells its country's lawmakers to stop meddling in monetary policy, Saudi's Shoura Council is stepping up its interference in small business issues. An incredibly detailed new law, awaiting Council of Ministers' approval, plans to govern the summer opening times of sheesha outlets, decide when highway food stops must close, and the winter hours of amusement arcades.The Shoura Council says the law is the result of two years of research and study. It reiterates that all shops should be closed during prayer times, regardless of the season.
Business needs some government – and Saudi officials are right to point to shorter European opening hours – but it is the nitpicking interference that bothers. A recent World Bank report put Saudi 23rd in terms of business reforms (presumably it had more than most to reform), ahead of others in the region. Good luck with next year's report.
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