Launch of the second phase of the building compliance certificate with a 6-month deadline

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing announced the launch of the second phase of the “Building Compliance Certificate” initiative, a strategic step aimed at enhancing national efforts to improve the urban landscape across the Kingdom’s cities and governorates. This step complements the ongoing efforts to regulate the built environment and ensure its compliance with technical and visual standards that minimize visual pollution, directly aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life Program.

Details of the second phase and the corrective period

The Ministry explained in its official statement that the second phase includes a set of precise implementation measures, most notably the identification of targeted new buildings and the linking of their data via the "Geographic Explorer." Keen to support property owners and enable them to comply with regulations without immediate burdens, the Ministry has granted a six-month grace period starting from the date of the decision. During this period, building owners can fulfill the necessary requirements to obtain a compliance certificate, which is issued completely free of charge through the Ministry's digital channels, according to simplified requirements focused on specific road axes.

General context and importance of urban compliance

This initiative is significant because it is an integral part of the major transformation underway in the Kingdom's municipal sector. Historically, some cities have suffered from inconsistencies in their architectural facades and construction violations that have negatively impacted their visual identity. Therefore, mandating specific building standards is not merely an administrative measure, but rather the foundation for a sustainable urban environment. This regulation contributes to increasing the market value of real estate, as compliant buildings are more attractive to both investors and residents, positively impacting the local economy and the investment climate.

Results of the first phase: Record success indicators

The ministry reviewed the successes achieved during the first phase, which reflected a growing public awareness of the importance of compliance. Official figures indicate:

• Issuing a compliance certificate for 95,835 buildings , achieving a 100% completion rate of the target.
• The number of applications submitted exceeded 102,708 .
• More than 175,000 inspection visits to ensure compliance with standards.

These figures confirm the effectiveness of the initiative and its ability to bring about a tangible change in the overall appearance of commercial and residential buildings and streets.

Expected impact and future of the urban landscape

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing affirmed that the building compliance certificate, valid for three years, is a crucial regulatory tool for improving the quality of construction and enhancing the reliability of building projects. It also standardizes oversight procedures across different municipalities, thus streamlining processes for beneficiaries.

In closing, the Ministry urged all building owners and investors to take advantage of the grace period and promptly address any outstanding issues to obtain certification. It emphasized that legal procedures and penalties will be enforced against non-compliant buildings immediately after the deadline. This initiative aims to ensure a clean and aesthetically pleasing urban environment that reflects the Kingdom's authentic architectural identity and aligns with its comprehensive development goals.