Understanding the Kingdom’s strict traffic laws is crucial for a safe and hassle-free experience.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of driving rules, traffic laws, voilations and penalties, tips, and recent updates to traffic regulations.
Table of Contents – Saudi Driving Rules and Traffic Laws
Which Side Do You Drive On in Saudi Arabia?
In Saudi Arabia, people drive on the right side of the road. This is essential to remember, especially for visitors from countries where driving is on the left side.
General Driving Rules in Saudi Arabia
To ensure safe driving and avoid fines, adhere to these basic rules:
- Always wear your seatbelt: Children must be seated in child safety seats.
- Do not use your phone while driving.
- Stick to your lane and overtake only from the left side.
- Follow speed limits, which vary depending on the type of road.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol: It’s illegal and carries severe penalties.
- Yield to emergency vehicles like ambulances and police cars.
Getting a Driving License
To drive legally in Saudi Arabia, you need a valid driving license. Here are the requirements:
- Minimum age: 18 for private vehicles, 20 for public or heavy vehicles.
- Foreign licenses: Valid for one year after entering the Kingdom.
- Always carry your license while driving.
Related: How to Get a Driving License in Saudi Arabia – A Complete Guide
Traffic Violations and Penalties
Saudi Arabia enforces traffic laws strictly. Violations are categorized based on severity, with penalties aimed at promoting road safety.
Below are the main categories:
Category 1: Severe Violations
- Fines: SAR 20,000 to SAR 60,000
Voilations in this category:
- Drifting (SAR 20,000 for the first offense; SAR 60,000 for repeated offenses).
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Crossing valleys during floods.
- Altering or hiding a vehicle’s chassis number.
Category 2: Major Violations
- Fines: SAR 5,000 to SAR 10,000
Voilations in this category:
- Ignoring red traffic lights.
- Participating in car races on public roads.
- Driving without a number plate.
- Installing unauthorized equipment in vehicles.
Category 3: Moderate Violations
- Fines: SAR 3,000 to SAR 6,000
Voilations in this category:
- Failing to stop at stop signals.
- Overloading vehicles with passengers.
- Driving on railway tracks or yellow lanes.
Category 4: Minor Violations
- Fines: SAR 1,000 to SAR 2,000
Voilations in this category:
- Driving without a valid license.
- Exceeding speed limits by more than 25 km/h.
- Misusing emergency vehicle sirens.
- Parking in unauthorized areas.
Category 5: Lesser Violations
- Fines: SAR 500 to SAR 900
Voilations in this category:
- Driving with an expired license.
- Failure to use headlights at night or in poor weather conditions.
- Dangerous maneuvers between vehicles.
Category 6: Low-Level Infractions
- Fines: SAR 300 to SAR 500
Voilations in this category:
- Exceeding speed limits by less than 25 km/h.
- Illegal vehicle modifications.
- Failing to yield priority to emergency vehicles.
Category 7: Minimal Infractions
- Fines: SAR 100 to SAR 300
Voilations in this category:
- Not wearing a seatbelt.
- Parking improperly or in places for people with special needs.
- Using strong lights improperly.
Traffic Violations and Fines in Saudi Arabia
Below is a table summarizing traffic violations in Saudi Arabia and their corresponding fines:
| Violation | Fine Range (SAR) | Remarks |
| Not wearing a seatbelt | 150–300 | Applies to all passengers; mandatory for safety. |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | 500–900 | Includes texting or calling without hands-free devices. |
| Running a red light | 3,000–6,000 | Vehicle may be impounded for repeated offenses. |
| Exceeding the speed limit by more than 25 km/h | 1,000–2,000 | Higher penalties for greater speed violations. |
| Driving without a valid license | 1,000–2,000 | License must always be carried while driving. |
| Drifting | 20,000–60,000 | First offense: SAR 20,000; third offense: SAR 60,000 with possible vehicle confiscation. |
| Misusing emergency vehicle sirens | 500–900 | Unauthorized use of sirens is strictly prohibited. |
| Parking in spaces reserved for people with disabilities | 500–900 | Applies even if the driver or passenger is temporarily absent. |
| Driving without proper headlights at night or in poor visibility | 500–900 | Ensures safety during low-visibility conditions. |
| Transporting passengers beyond the vehicle’s capacity | 1,000–2,000 | Includes overloading vehicles with too many passengers. |
| Installing unauthorized equipment or modifications to the vehicle | 5,000–10,000 | Includes illegal window tinting or adding unapproved lights/sirens. |
| Overtaking school buses while they are loading or unloading children | 3,000–6,000 | Designed to protect children crossing roads near buses. |
| Failing to stop after causing a traffic accident | Up to 10,000 | May also result in imprisonment for up to three months. |
| Driving on the wrong side of the road | 3,000–6,000 | Dangerous behavior that endangers others on the road. |
| Allowing an unlicensed person to drive your vehicle | 1,000–2,000 | Both parties may be held liable in case of accidents. |
| Failure to renew driving or vehicle license | SAR 100 per year | Maximum fine of SAR 300; applies after a grace period of 60 days post-expiry. |
Notes:
- Points System: Each violation adds points to the driver’s record. Accumulating 24 points in one Hijri year can lead to license suspension.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Certain violations (e.g., drifting or running red lights) may result in vehicle impoundment until the issue is resolved.
- Repeat Offenses: Fines and penalties increase significantly for repeated violations.
Points System for Traffic Violations
In addition to fines, Saudi Arabia employs a points system to discourage repeat traffic violations. Points are added to a driver’s record for each offense, emphasizing the importance of responsible driving. Below is a summary of common traffic violations and their corresponding points:
| Driving Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Driving under alcohol or drug influence | 24 |
| Drifting | 24 |
| Jumping the red traffic light | 12 |
| Driving a vehicle in the opposite direction | 12 |
| Maneuvering at high speed between vehicles | 8 |
| Failure to comply with traffic police directions | 8 |
| Driving a vehicle without brake lights | 8 |
| Not stopping a vehicle at a stop sign | 6 |
| Failure to give way to the driver with the right-of-way | 6 |
| Exceeding the speed limit by more than 25 kph | 6 |
| Not complying with traffic regulations at intersections | 6 |
| Overtaking vehicles in curves and uphill(s) | 6 |
| Stopping over railroads | 6 |
| Driving at a check post with more than 25 kph speed | 4 |
| Driving within lanes not intended for driving | 4 |
| Overtaking a school bus when it stops to board/unload | 4 |
| Uncovering or untying transported loads | 4 |
| Making an illegal amendment to a vehicle’s body | 4 |
| Driving a vehicle without a seatbelt | 2 |
| Using mobile phones while driving | 2 |
| Riding a motorbike without a helmet | 2 |
Penalties for Accumulating Points
If a driver accumulates 24 points within one Hijri year, the following actions are taken:
- First Offense: Driving license is suspended for 3 months.
- Second Offense: Driving license is suspended for 6 months.
- Third Offense: Driving license is suspended for 1 year.
- Fourth Offense: Driving license is permanently revoked.
This system is designed to encourage compliance with traffic laws, ensuring a safer driving environment for everyone on Saudi Arabia’s roads.
Role of the Saher Traffic System
The Saher Traffic System is an automated monitoring system that uses cameras to track violations such as:
- Speeding.
- Running red lights.
- Illegal parking.
Fines are issued automatically to ensure compliance with traffic laws.
Speed Limits in Saudi Arabia
Speed limits vary based on the type of road:
- Urban areas: 50–80 km/h.
- Highways: 120–140 km/h.
Exceeding these limits can result in hefty fines or even vehicle impoundment.
Recent Changes to Traffic Laws
Saudi Arabia has updated its traffic laws to improve road safety:
- Automated monitoring of violations like driving without headlights at night or parking in unauthorized areas.
- Stricter enforcement of seatbelt use and child safety measures.
- Historic change: Women were granted the right to drive in 2018.
Tips for Foreign Drivers
If you’re visiting Saudi Arabia and plan to drive, follow these tips:
- Learn local road signs and rules before hitting the road.
- Use GPS navigation to avoid getting lost.
- Park only in designated areas to avoid fines.
- Always carry your license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents.
How to Pay Traffic Fines
You can pay traffic fines through the following platforms:
- Online: Use platforms like Absher.
- ATMs: Linked with local banks.
Pay fines promptly to avoid additional penalties.
Why Following Traffic Rules is Important
Adhering to traffic rules ensures everyone’s safety on the road. It also helps you avoid financial penalties and legal trouble. Recent government efforts, including awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement, have reduced accidents by 7%.
Conclusion
Driving in Saudi Arabia can be a smooth and enjoyable experience when you follow the rules and remain cautious.
By adhering to traffic regulations, you contribute to a safer environment for all road users.
Remember, staying informed about the laws and prioritizing safety is key to avoiding penalties and ensuring a pleasant driving experience in the Kingdom.
FAQs About Driving Rules and Traffic Laws in Saudi Arabia
Can I drive in Saudi Arabia with an international driving license?
Yes, visitors can drive in Saudi Arabia with an international driving license for up to three months. After this period, expatriates must convert their international license into a Saudi driving license.
What should I do if my car breaks down on a Saudi highway?
If your car breaks down:
– Move your vehicle to the side of the road, if possible.
– Turn on your hazard lights.
– Place a safety triangle behind your car to warn other drivers.
– Call roadside assistance or the emergency services for help.
What is the rule for turning right at a red light in Saudi Arabia?
Turning right at a red light is permitted unless there is a sign specifically prohibiting it. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles before turning.
What are the rules for overtaking on Saudi roads?
Overtaking is only allowed from the left side of the vehicle ahead. It is prohibited to overtake if there are two solid lines down the middle of the road or in areas marked as no-overtaking zones.
Are there specific speed limits near schools or residential areas?
Yes, speed limits near schools and residential areas can be as low as 40 km/h (25 mph). Always watch for posted signs indicating reduced speed limits in these zones.
What happens if I fail to pay a traffic fine in Saudi Arabia?
If you fail to pay a traffic fine:
– You may face additional penalties or late fees.
– Your vehicle registration or license renewal could be blocked.
– If fines exceed SAR 20,000 or remain unpaid for six months, legal action may be taken, including suspension of government services.
Are there any special driving rules during prayer times?
During prayer times, some drivers may stop their vehicles briefly or lower their music volume out of respect. While not legally required, it is customary to follow this practice.
What are the rules for using child seats in Saudi Arabia?
Children under the age of 10 must use child safety seats while traveling in a vehicle. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure child safety.
Is it mandatory to carry fire extinguishers and safety triangles in cars?
Yes, all vehicles must carry a fire extinguisher and a safety triangle as part of mandatory safety requirements.
Can I modify my car’s appearance or features in Saudi Arabia?
No, modifying your car’s appearance, color, weight, engine power, or dimensions without prior authorization from authorities is prohibited and can result in fines ranging from SAR 5,000–10,000.
What should I do if I witness or am involved in a traffic accident?
If you are involved in or witness an accident:
– Stop immediately at the scene.
– Notify the police or Najm (for insured vehicles).
– Offer assistance to injured individuals if possible.
– Avoid moving vehicles involved unless necessary for safety.
