New Explosives Regulations: Import Requirements and Transport Controls

In a move aimed at strengthening public safety and security and modernizing legislation to align with the Kingdom's developmental progress, the Saudi Ministry of Interior the executive regulations for the Explosives and Fireworks Law through the "Istilaa" platform. This step allows the public and relevant stakeholders to provide their feedback, reflecting a commitment to transparency and community participation in the drafting of regulations.

A regulatory framework to enhance public safety

The introduction of this regulation comes at a time when the Kingdom is witnessing massive urban and industrial development under Vision 2030, necessitating precise regulatory frameworks for handling hazardous materials. The new regulation aims to close any regulatory gaps that could compromise safety and ensure that these sensitive materials are handled according to the highest international security standards, from importation to storage and disposal.

Permit requirements and storage regulations

The regulations precisely define the permit durations, with the Director of Public Security's permit issued for four years and renewable, while police directors' permits are issued for periods ranging from two to three years. Regarding storage, the ministry has established stringent engineering standards for warehouses, including:

• Leave gaps of at least 90 cm between stacks of explosive materials.
• Leave a distance of 50 cm between the stacks and the walls to ensure ventilation.
• Use non-sparking tools when handling boxes.
• Prohibit the storage of any foreign materials in explosives depots.

Regulating transportation and banning the Hajj season

The regulations place great emphasis on the transport of explosives, imposing strict time and location restrictions to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The transport of explosives is prohibited in the regions of Mecca and Medina from the 20th of Dhu al-Qi'dah to the 25th of Dhu al-Hijjah, and in the rest of the country from the 30th of Dhu al-Qi'dah to the 20th of Dhu al-Hijjah. Furthermore, transporters are required to notify the Saudi Interpol and security authorities at least two weeks before shipments cross into Saudi territory.

Import and financial guarantees

The regulations set strict conditions for engaging in the activity of importing explosives, to ensure the financial solvency and security of importers, the most prominent of which are:

• The applicant must be a Saudi national or a company owned by Saudis with a minimum of 51% ownership.
• Providing an unconditional bank guarantee of 200,000 riyals in favor of the Ministry of Interior.
• Providing an electronic system for inventory monitoring and tracking the movement of materials.
• Providing a comprehensive economic feasibility study and comprehensive insurance coverage.

Destruction protocols and sports safety

The regulations also addressed the disposal of expired or damaged materials, stipulating the presence of a committee comprising representatives from the Civil Defense, the Red Crescent, and explosives experts to oversee and document the destruction process. Regarding sports, the regulations governed the use of flares in stadiums, requiring clubs to submit comprehensive seasonal applications and pledges of responsibility to ensure that sporting events are conducted in a safe and civilized manner.