Riyadh authorities have launched a tough penalty system to tackle unlawful rent hikes and contract breaches. Under new rules linked to the Labor Law, landlords face steep fines for rent violations. The first offense costs a fine of two months’ rent. Repeat offenses trigger six months’ rent fine, and continued breaches lead to a 12-month rent penalty. Landlords must also fix the violations. The rules target rent hikes on residential, commercial, and vacant properties. Additionally, landlords must register rental contracts on the Ejar electronic network. A first warning is followed by fines up to three months’ rent for a second offense and six months’ rent for a third. In Riyadh, landlords who refuse to renew contracts or force tenants out illegally face similar fines, strengthening tenant protection against unfair eviction. The penalties do not stop tenants from seeking compensation separately for any losses caused. These new measures are part of a wider rent control system in Riyadh. This includes a government decision to freeze annual rent hikes for five years. Together, the rules aim to stabilize the rental market, cut down illegal practices, and protect tenants with clearer rules while setting firm limits for landlords.