Traffic Violations and Fines in Saudi Arabia: The Complete 2026 Guide

Receiving a traffic violation in Saudi Arabia notification from Moroor (General Department of Traffic) can be a frustrating experience. Whether you were caught by a Saher camera for speeding or received an Absher SMS for a seatbelt violation, understanding the official fine structure is essential for every driver in the Kingdom.

This 2026 updated guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of every traffic violation in Saudi Arabia category, the latest speeding fine tables on Efaa, and expert tips on how to save money through official government discounts.

Most Searched Saudi Traffic Fines

If you need an instant answer for your traffic violation in Saudi Arabia, here are the official 2026 rates for common offenses:

• Running a Red Light: 3,000 – 6,000 SAR. (Category 6)
• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving: 500 – 900 SAR. (Category 4)
• Not Wearing a Seatbelt (Driver or Passenger): 150 – 300 SAR. (Category 2)
• Driving Without a Valid License: 1,000 – 2,000 SAR. (Category 5)
• No Valid Vehicle Insurance: 100 – 150 SAR. (Category 1)

The Official 8-Category Violation Table

The Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) divides all traffic offenses into organized lists. We have categorized them below by cost and severity level:

Category 1: Minor Infractions (100 – 150 SAR)

• Driving in unauthorized areas (e.g., pedestrian-only zones).
• Leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running.
• Parking in non-designated areas.
• Pedestrians crossing from non-allocated places.
• No Valid Vehicle Insurance: An essential check for 2026 safety standards.

Category 2: Safety & Documentation (150 – 300 SAR)

• Seatbelt violations: Failure of the driver or passenger to wear a seatbelt.
• Signal violations: Not using turn signals when changing lanes.
• Failure to submit a vehicle for periodic technical inspection (MVPI/Fahas).
• Driving a vehicle with an expired driving license.
• Non-compliance with the health/technical restrictions mentioned on your license (see our Saudi Driving License Restriction Codes Guide for details).

Category 3: Behavioral Offenses (300 – 500 SAR)

• Throwing objects out of a moving vehicle.
• Slowing down suddenly without a technical reason.
• Making loud noises using vehicle devices.
• Leaving children under 10 years old in a vehicle without an adult.

Category 4: High-Risk Violations (500 – 900 SAR)

• Mobile Phone Use: Handholding or using a phone while driving.
• Running a STOP sign or yielding signal.
• Following an ambulance with emergency lights on.
• Window tinting (beyond legal limits).

Category 5: Serious Licensing Issues (1,000 – 2,000 SAR)

• Driving a vehicle without having any driving license.
• Overtaking in prohibited areas (turns or hills).
• Driving on road shoulders or sidewalks.
• Pedestrians crossing high-speed highways.

Traffic Violations in Saudi Arabia: The Red Light Rule

One of the most expensive types of traffic violation in Saudi Arabia involves traffic signals.

• Red Light Violation: Bypassing a traffic signal during the red light carries a fine of 3,000 – 6,000 SAR. (Category 6)
• Overtaking a school bus while it is stopped for loading/unloading.
• Driving in the opposite direction of traffic.
• Covering or blurring license plates to avoid Saher cameras.

Category 7: Dangerous Crimes (5,000 – 10,000 SAR)

• DUI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Attempting to cover the vehicle chassis number.
• Performing unauthorized road works that block traffic.

Category 8: Specialized Drifting Penalties (up to 60,000 SAR)

• Drifting (Tas’hir):
  • 1st Time: 20,000 SAR + 15 days impoundment.
  • 2nd Time: 40,000 SAR + 30 days impoundment.
  • 3rd Time: 60,000 SAR + permanent vehicle seizure.

Public Decency Violations (The Hidden List)

Beyond driving safety, Saudi Arabia enforces a strict Public Decency Law. Some of these violations are directly related to your vehicle and behavior on the road.

Note: For photos/videos of accidents, authorities may seize your device and delete the content.

Speeding Fines in KSA: The KM/H Breakdown

The Saher cameras use two different fine structures based on the road’s speed limit.

Table A: Max Speed Limit 120 km/h or less

Table B: Max Speed Limit 140 km/h (Highways)

The Traffic Points System: Keeping Your License

In Saudi Arabia, violations aren’t just about money; they also include Points. If you accumulate 24 points within a single Hijri year, your license will be suspended:

1. First Strike: 3 Months Suspension.
2. Second Strike: 6 Months Suspension.
3. Third Strike: 1 Year Suspension.
4. Fourth Strike: Permanent Revocation.

Expert Tip: Points are automatically cleared if you complete one full Hijri year without committing a new violation.

Vehicle Impoundment: When the Fine is Not Enough

For certain severe violations, a monetary fine is accompanied by the impoundment of your vehicle. These are the common impoundment periods in 2026:

How to Save Money: The 25% and 50% Discounts

The 25% Reduction (Article 75 Rule)

Any newly issued violation is eligible for a 25% discount if paid within the first 30 days of notification. This was a major focus for drivers in late 2025 and remains standard in 2026.

• The Trap: If you file a dispute (objection) via Absher and your objection is rejected, the 30-day clock continues from the date of the violation, not the rejection date.

The 50% Reduction (Legacy Fines Update)

Following a Royal Decree, a 50% discount was applied to accumulated old fines. Check your Efaa.sa portal immediately to see if your old fines are still eligible for this massive clearance initiative as we head into 2026.

How and Where to Pay Traffic Fines in KSA

1. SADAD Biller Code: Use biller code 071 (Ministry of Interior – Traffic Violations) on your bank app.
2. Efaa.sa Portal: The preferred site for English-speaking expats to view and pay all active violations.
3. Absher: Navigate to Services > Traffic > Query Traffic Violations.

How to Dispute a Wrongful Fine

• Deadline: File an objection on Absher within 30 days.
• Evidence: Ensure you have checked the photo. Common successful disputes include “Seatbelt worn but obscured by clothing” or “Emergency vehicle forced a red light crossing.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Stay Informed, Drive Safely

Managing your traffic violation in Saudi Arabia record in 2026 requires regular checks on Absher and Efaa. By understanding the 8 categories and the points system, you can protect both your bank account and your driving privileges.