Regulations for transporting goods by motorcycle in Saudi Arabia

The Public Transport Authority in Saudi Arabia has issued new executive regulations aimed at organizing the transport of goods by motorcycle . This strategic step aims to govern the sector, improve the level of services provided to the public, and encourage institutional investment, in line with economic and social development goals, while taking into account environmental aspects and traffic safety requirements.

The general context of the development of the delivery and logistics sector in the Kingdom

Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a tremendous boom in the e-commerce and delivery app sector, driven by the comprehensive digital transformation aimed at achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Historically, motorcycles were adopted for deliveries as a quick solution to bypass traffic congestion and meet the growing demand for food and small parcel delivery services. With this rapid growth, a pressing need arose for regulatory intervention to address the haphazard practices of some individuals and establish legal frameworks that ensure the safety of workers and road users, while preserving the civilized appearance of Saudi cities.

Economic dimensions and strategic importance of regulating freight transport by motorcycle

This new regulation is of paramount importance and will have a positive impact at both the local and regional levels. Locally, the decision contributes to creating an attractive and stable investment environment for companies and opens new job opportunities for Saudis, such as the requirement to appoint a Saudi operational supervisor. It also improves the quality of life by reducing traffic accidents and ensuring that products reach consumers with the highest quality standards. Regionally, with this regulation, the Kingdom is setting a pioneering model for governing the freelance economy and delivery applications, thus strengthening its position as a sophisticated logistics hub that keeps pace with global best practices in managing light transport fleets.

Limiting the practice to licensed establishments and prohibiting individuals

In a decisive move to regulate the market, the authority revealed that these activities are restricted to commercial establishments only, prohibiting individuals from operating independently. It sternly warned against engaging in the activity without obtaining the necessary license, or continuing it after its expiration or suspension. The authority emphasized that the ban includes all preparatory actions such as soliciting people or gathering at locations where goods are present. The activities are divided into two main categories: transporting goods for others, and transporting goods for the establishment itself. A separate license is issued for each activity for a period of one year, and the establishment is granted a 90-day grace period to fulfill the requirements; otherwise, the application is considered null and void.

Human resources requirements and technical specifications for bicycles

To ensure quality service, the regulations stipulate that each motorcycle driver must obtain a professional driver's license. Non-Saudi drivers are required to have a suitable profession listed on their residency permit, provide a certificate of good conduct, and pass a professional competency test. Technically, the operational lifespan of a motorcycle is set at a maximum of four years from the year of manufacture. An operating license is also required for each motorcycle, along with third-party liability insurance and a periodic technical inspection certificate. The regulations mandate the installation of tinted windshields and mobile phone holders, and require the appointment of a Saudi operational supervisor for every 50 motorcycles used for third-party transportation.

Safety standards and protection of beneficiaries' rights

The regulations strictly prohibit the transport of any goods containing hazardous materials or the transport of people on motorcycles. Drivers are required to wear full protective gear, including helmets, gloves, and elbow and knee pads. To protect passengers' rights, goods are prohibited from being attached to parts of the motorcycle or carried in backpacks. Instead, they must be placed in a secure, standardized container, with appropriate storage for the goods and a designated area for beverages. Service providers are also obligated to respond to urgent requests from the authority within six working hours.

Clear mechanisms for dealing with violations and grievances

The authority concluded its regulations by establishing clear mechanisms for handling violations, granting those affected the right to appeal within 30 days of being notified of the decision through approved platforms. It clarified that no measures will be taken to restrict services provided to the violator during the appeal period, while emphasizing the violator's obligation to proceed to designated impoundment locations if they commit violations warranting motorcycle impoundment.