Saudi Arabia Restricts Use of Divine Names on Commercial Packaging
New rules prohibit the use of Allah’s names on disposable bags and packaging to protect religious sanctity.
The Ministry of Commerce has issued a ban on the use of the Divine Names of Allah on commercial bags, product packaging, and other materials that may be discarded or used inappropriately. The measure applies to printed bags, packaging, and promotional items, particularly those designed for temporary or disposable use.
According to the ministry, the decision is intended to safeguard religious reverence and prevent the misuse of names that hold deep spiritual significance in Islam. In a statement shared on the ministry’s official X account, spokesperson Abdulrahman Al Hussein said the step reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to honouring and protecting the Divine Names of Allah, known as Al Asma Ul Husna. He noted that placing these names on items that could be mishandled or discarded risks undermining their sanctity.
The restriction forms part of broader regulatory efforts governing trade names and branding practices in the Kingdom. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Commerce approved the Law of Trade Names, which sets clear parameters on permissible business names and branding elements. Under the law, trade names must not include prohibited terms, the names of government or semi-government entities, or other restricted references.
The regulations also outline specific conditions for using the name “Saudi Arabia” or the names of cities and regions in commercial branding. Officials said the latest decision aligns with this framework, which seeks to balance commercial activity with religious, cultural, and social considerations.
