New transportation penalties: deportation of expatriates and a fine of 2600 riyals for unlicensed drivers
In a decisive move aimed at reorganizing the transportation sector in Saudi Arabia, the Public Transport Authority a package of significant amendments to the schedule of violations and penalties in the executive regulations governing taxi and taxi brokerage activities. These measures, announced through the "Istilaa" platform, reflect a firm commitment to eliminating irregularities, enhancing compliance with regulations, and improving the quality of services provided to users.
The context of the organization and its importance to the sector
This move is part of a comprehensive national strategy aligned with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great importance on the transport and logistics sector. The taxi sector has long suffered from the phenomenon of unlicensed transportation, locally known as "Kaddada," a practice that has negatively impacted fair competition for licensed companies, in addition to raising concerns about passenger safety and security. Through these amendments, the Authority aims to restrict operations in this vital sector to those legally licensed, thereby enhancing Saudization opportunities and protecting private sector investments.
The most prominent penalties: deportation of expatriates and public shaming
The proposed draft included unprecedented deterrent penalties, most notably the deportation of any non-Saudi driver found to have violated the regulations. This measure is crucial to ensuring that only authorized categories of drivers work in the transportation and taxi sectors, and to supporting efforts to Saudize the sector. Furthermore, the amendments stipulate the public shaming of repeat offenders , with a summary of the court ruling to be published at the offender's expense, thus reinforcing the principle of transparency and achieving public deterrence.
Pursuing "Kaddada" and fines for preparatory work
The authority did not stop at penalizing the completed act of unlicensed transportation; it also introduced a fine of 2,600 riyals for anyone engaging in "preparatory work" for transporting passengers in their private vehicle. This means that simply being present in gathering places and attempting to solicit or arrange transportation for passengers without a license is now a punishable offense—a proactive measure aimed at preventing violations before they occur.
Regulating the Kingdom's interface: Airports without randomness
Regarding airport taxi services, which represent the first point of contact for visitors and tourists, the amendments have tightened procedures to ensure high compliance. The same fines have been set for violations, along with stricter administrative penalties that may include license suspension for a full year or vehicle impoundment. This approach aims to enhance the visitor experience from the moment of arrival and ensure transportation services befitting the Kingdom's status as a global tourist destination.
In conclusion, the amendments granted the Violations Review Committee broad powers to impose fines exceeding ten thousand riyals for serious violations, which confirms the Authority’s determination to protect the rights of passengers and legitimate investors and to completely eliminate the shadow economy in the transport sector.
