Saudi Arabia has taken a bold step toward making its roads safer by approving tough new amendments to the traffic law. According to the Okaz Arabic daily, expatriates convicted of reckless driving offenses that endanger public safety will now face automatic deportation. Once deported, they will also be permanently banned from returning to the Kingdom.
This landmark decision is part of a coordinated effort among the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, and the Public Prosecution, underscoring the government’s unified stance on road safety.
Harsher Penalties for Repeat Offenders
The amended law doesn’t stop at first-time violations. Drivers who reoffend will face escalating consequences:
- Second violation within 12 months → Authorities impose maximum fine.
- Third violation within the same year → Court may order up to one year in prison or double the fine.
Authorities have emphasized that the law now clearly defines the types of violations considered a threat to public safety, leaving little room for ambiguity. By tightening the rules, Saudi Arabia aims to not only protect its citizens and residents but also send a strong message that reckless driving will not be tolerated.
What Expat Drivers Should Do Now
- Know the rules: Review key traffic provisions—speed limits, signal compliance, seat-belt and child-seat rules, and strict bans on impaired driving.
- Drive defensively: For example, maintain safe following distances and avoid aggressive lane changes. Additionally, reduce speed in school zones and construction areas.
- Stay compliant on paperwork: Maintain a valid license, Istimara (registration), insurance, and Fahas (MVPI) for your vehicle; clear any fines promptly.
- If involved in a serious incident: Cooperate fully, obtain legal counsel, and follow court instructions closely. Please note that the new measure only takes effect after a final court ruling.
- For employers/fleet managers: Refresh driver training, audit telematics for harsh events, and document compliance to reduce organizational risk.
Stay safe on Saudi roads and avoid hefty fines by reading Traffic Violations to Avoid while Driving in KSA.
The Kingdom has invested in smarter enforcement and safer infrastructure. Making deportation possible—after due process—for conduct that endangers lives aligns penalties with risk. The message is clear: responsible driving is non-negotiable, and high-risk behavior carries real consequences, regardless of nationality.
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