New Traffic Violation Fines in Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know

SAUDI ARABIA - Saudi Arabia’s General Department of Traffic has introduced updated fines for traffic violations, aiming to address safety concerns and enforce stricter regulations. 

• Traffic violations in Saudi Arabia are now categorized into 8 levels, with fines ranging from SAR 100 to SAR 10,000.
• Common violations include driving without a license, not wearing a seatbelt, and misuse of vehicle alarms.
• Severe penalties apply for violations such as driving under the influence or bypassing red traffic lights.
• The new system emphasizes pedestrian safety, proper vehicle maintenance, and environmental compliance.  

Saudi Arabia has revamped its traffic fines system to improve road safety and reduce accidents. This move follows a rise in violations, including driving without a license, illegal parking, and failing to wear seatbelts. The General Department of Traffic categorized fines into eight levels based on the severity of the offenses, ranging from minor violations to major infractions. Here's a breakdown of what drivers and pedestrians need to know.  

Categories of Traffic Violation Fines  

1. Minor Violations (SAR 100 - 150): These include everyday oversights, such as:

• Parking in non-designated areas.
• Pedestrians jaywalking or ignoring traffic signals.
• Leaving an unattended vehicle with the engine running.  

2. Moderate Violations (SAR 150 - 300): For slightly more serious offenses:

• Failing to use turn signals while turning or changing lanes.
• Driving without a valid license or vehicle inspection.
• Not wearing a seatbelt or leaving a safe distance between vehicles.  

3. Safety Violations (SAR 300 - 500): These violations pose risks to public safety:

• Throwing objects from a moving vehicle.
• Sudden braking or unnecessary slow driving.
• Leaving children under 10 unattended in a vehicle.  

4. Road Behavior Violations (SAR 500 - 900): Examples include:

• Following emergency vehicles unnecessarily.
• Using unauthorized tints or polluting vehicles.
• Blocking priority routes or obstructing public transport.  

Serious and Critical Offenses  

5. High-Risk Violations (SAR 1,000 - 2,000): These include:

• Driving vehicles not suited to your license type.
• Parking on railway tracks.
• Overtaking in prohibited zones like curves or heights.  

6. Dangerous Violations (SAR 3,000 - 6,000): Examples:

• Running a red light or overtaking school buses.
• Dodging between vehicles at high speed.
• Driving in the wrong direction on public roads.  

7. Extreme Offenses (SAR 5,000 - 10,000): The most severe penalties apply to:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications.
• Using unauthorized vehicle plates.
• Engaging in races on public roads.  

With this updated fine system, Saudi Arabia aims to create a safer driving environment while emphasizing adherence to traffic rules. Drivers are urged to familiarize themselves with these regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to safer roads for all.