Article 94 of the Saudi Antiquities Law

This article sets the effective date of the Law of Antiquities, Museums and Urban Heritage, meaning the moment its provisions become binding on individuals and bodies. The Law is not applied from the day it is issued but after 120 days from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

The practical purpose of this period is to allow enough time for those concerned with the Law's provisions, such as owners of movable antiquities, private museums and those dealing in this field, to learn of the new provisions and prepare for them before they become enforceable.

This article is linked to Article 93, which requires the Board, meaning the Authority's board of directors, to issue the regulations within 120 days of the date the Law is published in the Official Gazette. The two periods are equal and are counted from the same date, the date of publication.

What this means for the reader:

• The starting point for the count is the date of publication in the Official Gazette, not the date the Law was approved.
• After the period ends, the Law's provisions are in force and must be complied with.
• Determining whether a particular incident is subject to this Law according to the date it occurred is a matter that needs examination in each case, and it is wise to consult a lawyer who specializes in administrative law and heritage.