Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce on Monday announced the prohibition on the use of Allah’s 99 names on packaging materials that are disposable. The decision has been announced to avoid situations where the names could be disrespected.
“It is worthy to note that the law of trade names, which was approved by the Ministry of Commerce a few months ago, stipulates that a trade name must not contain any name on the list of prohibited names or the name of a governmental or semi-governmental entity while adhering to the regulations for reserving or registering the name Saudi Arabia and the names of cities,” the ministry’s spokesperson, Abdul Rahman Al Hussain, said talking to X.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the ministry directed chambers of commerce across the Kingdom to circulate the order among their members and all commercial establishments.
Saudi Announces Ban on the Use of Allah’s Names in Public Places
Earlier to this, Saudi Arabia announced a new set of rules for naming public places across the kingdom. Anything that contradicts the principles of Sharia will be banned, and strict control has been used to maintain uniformity.
Under the new regulations, the use of Allah’s names in public places has been restricted across Saudi Arabia. The rules apply to all government-owned properties, including municipal offices, schools, universities, hospitals, cultural centers, sports complexes, mosques, transport facilities, and other public assets. Authorities said the move aims to standardize naming practices in line with Islamic values and national identity.
Each government institution will be responsible for naming public places within its jurisdiction and must comply with the prescribed guidelines. Departments have been instructed to frame internal bylaws, with permission to use the names of God limited to seven—Al-Salam, Al-Adl, Al-Awwal, Al-Noor, Al-Haq, Al-Shahid, and Al-Malik.
Prior approval will also be required to name public facilities after the King, the Crown Prince, or leaders of friendly nations.
