Saudi Arabia's list of explosives: safeguards and prohibitions during Hajj

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has published the draft executive regulations for the Explosives and Fireworks Law on the "Istilaa" platform, in a move aimed at updating and developing the legislative and regulatory framework for the handling, manufacture, import, and storage of explosive materials in the Kingdom. This initiative is part of the Ministry's efforts to enhance public safety and security requirements and ensure that field practices comply with the highest international standards.

A regulatory framework that aligns with the Kingdom's vision

This regulation is of particular importance given the industrial and urban development boom underway in Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030, especially with the expansion of the mining sector and major construction projects that rely heavily on the use of explosives for civilian purposes. The new regulation aims to address legislative gaps and identify obstacles that may hinder the work of relevant authorities, thereby facilitating oversight and improving implementation efficiency, while maintaining stringent security measures to prevent any illicit use of these materials.

Strict requirements for manufacturing explosives and multi-million dollar guarantees

The regulations stipulated precise requirements for establishing explosives manufacturing companies, mandating that the manager be a Saudi national with no criminal record. Among the most prominent financial requirements was the provision of an unconditional bank guarantee of one million Saudi riyals in favor of the Ministry of Interior, valid for five years. The regulations also covered various categories, including electronic capsules, emulsifying agents (such as Chemolux and Nitram), and oil and gas exploration equipment.

Import and transport ban during Hajj season

In order to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims, the regulations impose strict time limits on the movement of explosives. The import, export, or transport of these materials is prohibited during the Hajj season, specifically from the 30th of Dhu al-Qi'dah to the 20th of Dhu al-Hijjah each year. For importers, the regulations require a bank guarantee of 200,000 riyals and restrict imports to entities licensed in specific sectors such as mining and well drilling.

Security and engineering standards for warehouses

The regulations paid close attention to storage locations, stipulating that warehouses must be at least 10 kilometers away from urban areas and must not be situated in floodplains or areas prone to natural disasters. They also imposed precise construction specifications for permanent warehouses, including:

• Walls made of reinforced concrete or cement bricks of specified thicknesses.
• Armored iron doors that open outwards and are equipped with multiple locks.
• Natural ventilation systems and lightning protection.
• Earthen berms and advanced television surveillance systems cover the entire perimeter.

Expected impact on the industrial and security sectors

This regulation is expected to raise the level of professionalism in the hazardous materials sector, as it mandates that companies train and qualify their technical staff through specialized courses. Furthermore, defining responsibilities and financial guarantees will strengthen companies' adherence to safety standards, reducing the risk of occupational accidents and ensuring a safe working environment in major development projects, while maintaining national security as a top priority.